TEXAS 



1$50. 



BY MELINDA RANKIN, 




BOSTON: . 
PRINTED BY DAMRELL & MOORE, 

No. 16 Devonehire Street. 

1860. 



Entered according to Act of Congress, in tlie year 1850, 

BY MELINDA RANKIN, 

In tho Clerk's Office of the District Court of the District of Massachusei tr. 






PEEFACE 



A COMPLETE and correct delineation of Texas is an under- 
fnl-ing of no small magnitude, and in assuming such a respon- 
sible task, I am aware that much depends upon its successful 
prosecution. Motives sufficiently powerful, however, induce 
me to make the attempt, and embark my enterprise upon the 
uncertain sea of public opinion. 

Having spent several months during last year in the older 
States, the evidence was constantly presented, that a history, 
illustrating the present condition of Texas would be an impor- 
tant service in enlightening the public mind alfroad, relative 
to her true character and condition. It is a fact that Texas 
is not sufficiently known to give her that importance abroad 
which her merits demand, and the object of this work is to 
lift the veil of ignorance which now obscures one of the most 
interesting and important portions of the United States. 

Not having any interest in Texas but the desire of benefit- 
ting it, my representations will, I trust, be impartial, such as 
will exhibit its merits and demerits, its wants, and the proper 
adaptation of means to supply those wants, and, if possible, 
to enlist Christian sympathy and co-operation in aid of evan- 
gelizing a country which is destined, evidently, to exert an 
important influence over other contiguous countries. 



4 PREFACE. 

Texas occupies a very important position in regard to the 
unevangelized portions of our own continent, and on this 
account, claims more notice from the north and east in be- 
half of moral enterprise, than has been hitherto extended 
towards her. A voice has been sounding long and loud in 
the ears of eastern churcheS; in behalf of the west, ^' the far 
west," until their sympathy has become concentrated within 
the valleys of the western rivers. Shall it stop there, and not 
be extended to other portions of the Union, whose claims are 
as great, and whose importance is second to none others ? 

Appeals must be made until they strike the sympathetic 
chords of New-England philanthropy, and excite to efforts 
in behalf of this south-western portion of our glorious Union: 
The resources of New-England are not yet exhausted ; from 
her armory may yet be drawn spiritual weapons sufficient to 
supply the moral wants of Texas. 

Born and reared amidst the high and exalted privileges of 
New-England, — having breathed the air and inhaled some- 
what of her philanthropic spirit, I turn vi'h ardent desire, 
and present an important appeal to my beloved country — 

** The land of every land the pride, 
Beloved by heaven, o'er all the world beside" — 

The land of gospel privileges and institutions, and which pos- 
sesses the means that might be rendered pre-eminently in- 
strumental in blessing our land and world. I fain would reit- 
erate the call in behalf of Texas. 

If our New-England friends would disseminate throughout 
the land the principles of the puritan fathers, they must send 



PREFACE. b 

out more, maiiy more, of their numbers, to occupy the wide 
and destitute fields of the south west. New-England has 
done much to spread the gospel in other sections of country ; 
but she owes to Christ, to the church of God, a great 
deal more, in strengthening the hands and encouraging the 
hearts of Christians, who are occupying the destitute fields in 
Texas. She might, without impoverishing herself, send 
scores of her young ministers to scatter the good seed, in fields 
which would amply compensate the labor ; and it is evidently 
her privilege and duty to do so. 

Knowing as I do the extensive means in her power, I am 
bold in presenting the claims of Texas. 

Having identified myself with the interest of this highly 
interesting State, its wants I justly feel, and in advocating 
its cause, I am fully aware that the importance of the object 
justifies mo in the performance of the duty. 

The growing importance of Texas is a matter of serious con- 
sideration. It embraces a territory much larger in extent than 
New England, and with its fertile soil and genial climate it may 
naturally be inferred that in the course of a few years it will 
be filled up with a dense population. Whether the blessings of 
the gospel will accompany all the changes which will evidently 
take place, is a question of infinite importance. Now is the 
time for action, the future may be too late. We must all 
work, and work all together, if we expect moral enterprises 
will increase and spread, with tlie increasing and spreading 
population of the State. 

Gincinnatiy Texas, 1850. 



CONTENTS. 



PART FIRST. 



CHAPTER I. 

Revolution and Annexation. Subsequent Prosperity. Future Pros- 
pects. The Basis of Future Prosperity. Texas a Missionary 
Field p. 13 

CHAPTER II. 

Texas compared with other States. Inducements for the Emigration 
of the Farmer and Mechanic. Prospect and Encouragement of 
the Emigrant. Improvements. Natural Scenery. Flowers. Phys- 
ical Resources. State of Society. Moral Institutions. Prosperi- 
ty of the Temperance Cause p. 21 

CHAPTEE III. 

Church and School Foundation of Civil and Religious Liberty. Dif- 
ficulties of sustaining the Christian Religion in the early times of 
Texas. Its Success and Future Prospects. The Gospel Ministry. 
An Efficient Ministry. The Necessity of Supporting the Ministry. 
The Standard of Piety should become more elevated. . p. 31 

CHAPTEE ly. 

Church and School Buildings. Scarcity in Texas. Importance of 
Early Attention to these Objects. Want of Teachers. Co-opera- 
tion of the North with the South in advancing the Cause of Edu- 
cation. Free School System. Importance and Advantage to 
Texas. Extract from the Governor's Message. . . p. 39 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTEE V. 

Progress of the Institutions of Texas. Moral and Religious Insti- 
tutions must keep pace with other Departments of Improvement. 
Moral Training of Youth. Education must be Evangelized. 
Adaptation of the Sabbath School. Its Prosperity and Importance. 
Necessity of Replenishing the Departments of Christian Enterprise. 
A Demand for Missionaries. Prospective Influence of Texas over 
Mexico. Necessity of raising Texas to a high point of Moral 
Power. The Consequent Efiects upon Mexico. . . p. 49 

CHAPTER VI. 

Newspapers of Texas — opinion in the older States. Literary merit of 
the periodicals. Their increase. Their influence. Importance of 
a correct literature to the moral character of a country. Respon- 
sibilities of Editors. Circulation of religious books. Need of book- 
sellers. An improvement requisite in school books. . p. 58 

CHAPTER Vn. 

Comparison of the moral interests of Texas with the erection of a 
building. Necessity of the correspondence of the parts. The 
minutest causes to be regarded. Population to be made up in part. 
Dangers of a heterogeneous class of citizens. Difficulties attend- 
ing the formation of society. Proper means for obviating those 
difficulties. Necessity of high moral principles. Importance of a 
concentration of purpose. A model for imitation. Extract, exhib- 
iting the example of the first settlers of New England. Similar 
decision and fixed purpose requisite. Indications of Providence in 
behalf of Texas, encouraging to future efforts. United labors of 
Christians demanded. p. 64 

CHAPTER Vni. 

The Missionary of Texas. Encouragement under Privations. Pros- 
pects and Promises which he has to sustain him. Encouragement 
which the Gospel off'ers for an Increase of Missionaries. Appeals 
in behalf of Texas. Claims upon the North and East. Duty of 
Extending Aid in behalf of Moral Enterprise. . . p. 75 



PART SECOND. 

Limits of Texas. Existing Difficulties relative to the True Boundary. 
Divisions of Texas. Face of the Country. Climate. Health. 
Mineral Resources. Natural Advantages and Adaptation to the 
"Wants of man. Eastern Texas. Counties and Shire Towns. Face 
of the Country. Timber. Streams of Water. Facilities for 



CONTENTS. 



Manufacturing Establishments. Emigration and Improvements. 
Fruits, and Vegetable Productions. Staple Commodities. Stock 
Raising. Intei-nal Improvements. Natural Advantages. Desti- 
tution in the Moral Department of Improvement. The Educa- 
tional and Religious Advantages not adequate to the Demands of 
the Population. The Increase of Ministers and Teachers not 
commensurate with the Extensive Emigration. Difficulties at- 
tending Ministerial Labors. Sectional Feeling. False Systems of 
Christianity. Necessity of Ministers professing True Bible Wis- 
dom. Fluctuations in Public Sentiment and Moral Enterprises. 
The Most Important Element of Success. The Missionaries' Ad- 
vent into Texas. Common Entrance. Sabine River. Description 
of Sabine Town. Appearance of Texan Towns to the Stranger. 
Interesting on account of their Improving Condition. Description 
of San Augustine, Nacogdoches, Douglass, Crockett. Northern 
Portion of Eastern Texas. Entrance. Admitting Emigration 
rapidly. Description of Clarksville, Marshall, Henderson, Rusk, 
Larissa, Palestine. Importance of a Female Institution of High 
Order i'n Texas. Trinity Valley. Productive Lands. Naviga- 
tion of the Trinitv. Mineral Resources of the Trinity Valley. 
Middle Texas, Counties, Shire Towns. Natural Advantages. Fer- 
tility of the Soil of the Brasos Valley. Navigation of the River. 
Improvements which might be made to facilitate the Commercial 
Interests of Middle Texas. Adaptation of the Soil to the Cultiva- 
tion of Sugar Cane. Facilities for Manufacturing Establishments. 
Increase of Population, and Growing Importance. Deficiency in 
the Means of Education. An Enlarged System of Education de- 
manded. An Increase of High Moral Principle, commensurate 
with the Increase of Population. The Standard of Piety of Church 
Members should become more Elevated. The Harmony and co- 
operation of the Different Branches of Christ's Church required. 
Houses for the Worship of God. Observance of the Sabbath. 
Improvements made in Society during the last three years. 
Prospects of Continued Improvements. Description of Cmcin- 
nati. Huntsville. Montgomery. Danville. Anderson. Washing- 
ton. Independence. Rutersvillc. La Grange. Bastrop. Aus- 
tin.' Galveston. Houston. Brazoria. San Felipe. Matagorda. 
Old Caney. Changes which have hitherto taken place in Relation 
to Towns. More permanency at the present. Sparsely settled 
portions of Country. Important Missionary Fields. Need of 
Ministers to collect scattered Church Members and organize 
Churches. Destitutions in the Old Presbyterian Church. Acces- 
sion of Ministers during the last year. Appeal to Churches in 
favored portions of Countries to aid the feeble Churches of Texas. 
Duty of portions of Churches to Colonize. Necessity of a better 
Church and more Active and energetic Piety among the Members. 
Western Texas. Counties, Shire Towns. Extensive Territory 
yet to be occupied. Variety of Population. Relation of the In- 
dians. Hostile incursions of Indians during the last year. Im- 
mediate Measures required for Suppressing Depredations. Im- 
potance of Western Texas. Navigation of the Rio Grande. Other 
Rivers susceptible of being rendered Navigable. Fertility of the 
Prairie Regions. Manufacturing Facilities. Mineral Resources. 
Natural Curiosities. Cross Timbers. Originof the Old Missions. 



10 CONTENTS. 



Necessity of Protestant Emigration. Prevalence of the Roman 
Catholic Religion. Immediate Efforts demanded for the Evange- 
lization of Mexicans on the Rio Grande. Dr. Baker's Report of 
the Condition and Wants of that interesting portion of Country. 
The Readiness of the Mexicans to receive the Gospel. Eagerness 
for Bibles and Tracts. Description of the Upper Rio Grande. 
Destitution of Ministers and Teachers. Fertility of the Country 
and Inducements for settlers. Recent Organization of Counties. 
Appeal for Laborers in behalf of the Rio Grande Valley. Descrip- 
tion of San Antonio. Gonzales. Seguin. Of the Country situat- 
ed on the Gaudaloupe River. Influence of the Temperance Cause. 
School Houses and Churches taking the place of Grog-Shops. 
Description of New Braunfels. Comal Town. Valley of the Co- 
mal River. Castroville. Beauty of the Natural Scenery. Indianola. 
Goliad. Towns on the Rio Grande. Edinborough. New St. 
Louis. Brownsville. Roma. Rio Grande. Laredo. El Paso. 
Necessity of re-enforcing the latter towns with strong Protestant 
Influences, on account of their prospective influence over Mexico. 
Retrospect of Texas. Her Early History. The Noble Senti- 
ments of Freedom evinced by the Early Settlers of Texas. The 
Achievement of their Independence. Foundation for the Prospe- 
rity which has succeeded. The Immense Improvements. Motives 
for Emigration. A Field for Interest and Usefulness. A Great 
Work yet demanded. A Contest waged. Texians called upon, 
to gird on their Spiritual Armor. An Appeal for Christian Volun- 
teers to aid in this Holy Warfare p. 81 



TEXAS IN 1850 
PART FIRST. 



CHAPTER I. 

Revolution and Annexation. Subsequent Prosperity. Future Pros- 
pects. The Basis of Future Prosperity. Texas a Missionary 
Field. 

That a correct estimate of a country be formed, 
some knowledge of its former history is requisite, by 
which means may be ascertained its progress and the 
degree of improvement of which it is susceptible. 

In delineating Texas, we will assume our position 
at the time of her revolution, which period, in a very 
important manner, decided her future character and 
destiny. The Texians, in the achievement of their 
independence of Mexico, established a republican 
government, which, with comparatively limited means, 
was sustained with a good degree of honor. A peace- 
able condition of affairs succeeded, which was followed 
by an increase of population, who aided in the prosecu- 
tion of those objects necessary for the prosperity of 
this feeble yet energetic republic. The institutions 
which were founded and supported under the various 



14 TEXAS IN 1850. 

difficulties with which Texas was then involved, spoke 
much in favor of what might have been done under 
more favorable circumstances. 

The rigid school of discipline in which the early 
settlers of Texas were trained, was favorable in nurtur- 
ing a firm and persevering spirit, by which they were 
enabled to encounter and overcome obstacles, which, 
at this period, were not of an inferior character ; and 
probably would have discouraged any but those who 
claimed the privilege of styling themselves Texians. 
Analogous to the mountain oak, whose roots become 
firmly fixed by being often exposed to the raging blasts, 
Texians, by the difficulties they had to encounter, be- 
came more firmly established in elevated and virtuous 
principle. 

After struggling several years under difficulties, 
resulting from the limited means of a repubhc of such 
small extent, it was thought expedient for its future 
interest and prosperity to become annexed to the 
United States. Accordingly, after the necessary pre- 
liminary arrangements, Texas was admitted into the 
Union, and to all the privileges consequent to that 
alliance. 

After five years' successful operation, the country's 
rapid progress has stamped her future prosperity be- 
yond a matter of uncertainty. An influx of intelligent 
and enterprising citizens has given such an additional 
strength that the car of improvement is fast advancing ; 
and should it continue to be propelled with the acceler- 
ated velocity which may reasonably be expected, Texas 



TEXAS IN 1850. 15 

is destined to be, ere many years, a State, •whicli, in 
importance, will be second to none other in the Union. 

Possessing a climate as mild as far-famed Italy, and a 
soil favorable to the production of every thing earth 
can yield, and having a decided advantage over all the 
other Southern States, in point of health, it cannot 
fail of attracting to it an immense emigration. As 
has been hitherto, it is to be hoped that the intelligent 
and moral only, will find their way to Texas. A good 
influence is particularly demanded as this juncture is 
an important era in the establishment of those princi- 
ples which are to tell on future generations. 

As a country grows in prosperity, moral and intel- 
lectual improvements must keep pace, and as these, at 
present, are of the onward march in Texas, no emigra- 
tion is desired which has only for its object specula- 
tions of worldly interest to the exclusion of every other 
consideration. To those who have the philanthropy 
and public spirit to get good and do good, Texas pre- 
sents an important and interesting field. An opportu- 
nity is presented for the development and exercise of 
all the noble faculties of the soul. To aid in advanc- 
ing a country as favorable to improvement as Texas, is 
an object which merits the co-operation of the most wor- 
thy and energetic. 

A moral grandeur is attached to enterprises, in which 
national interest predominates over selfish ends : and 
should a truly prosperous individual be looked after, he 
will be found with a heart too expansive in its opera- 
tions to be satisfied within the narrow circle of private 
interests. 



16 TEXAS IN 1850. 

Institutions of a moral character are to be the basis 
upon which to build the future prosperity of Texas. 

Religious principles, or rather Bible principles, must 
accompany every enterprise which has for its object 
the good of society. Other foundations have been 
undertaken upon ; but experiment has fully proven, 
that no superstructure of human improvement can long 
stand, unsustained by the unerring principles of God's 
word. The caviller may object to this sentiment, but 
he need only to look abroad over the civilized world to 
see that in proportion as Christianity is a living princi- 
ple among a people, so do they stand forth in intelli- 
gence, freedom, worth and power. On the other hand, 
as infidelity pervades the spirit of a nation, in the 
same proportion has she sunk in the scale of political 
existence and moral excellence. For an example, let 
him observe the contrast between Mexico and New 
England : the one a perfect specimen of civilized 
degradation (if the expression may be allowed,) and 
the other a rare model of the vital principles of Chris- 
tianity, carried into every department of moral enter- 
prise. 

The worth of the puritan system is already recorded 
on the page of history, and may, with propriety, be 
referred to as a controlling element of power in the 
development and progress of society. 

A system embracing the right elements of power, 
is permanent in its influence and increasing in its 
strength from age to age. All else is superficial and 
transient. 



TEXAS IN 1850. 17 

A good degree of feeling upon this subject is already 
manifested in Texas, yet a deeper conviction is neces- 
sary to produce that impulse and enthusiasm in the 
leading minds of the State, which shall operate so 
powerfully as to pervade the universal mind, and stim- 
ulate to such extensive operations as the greatness of 
the object demands. 

The importance of elevating Texas to a high point 
of moral power and efficiency, is evident from her 
present and prospective influence over Mexico. The 
openings in this new State for missionary efforts, must 
be more justly appreciated, and means used corres- 
ponding to their importance. An interest is beginning 
to be felt, which is truly gratifying. 

Already this subject is before the many benevolent 
societies of the day, and co-operation, to some extent, 
extended, but not as its comparative importance de- 
mands. The benevolent spirit of many portions of the 
United States is evidently stirred, and much may yet 
be expected. Nothing is wanting but sufficient infor- 
mation of the situation and wants of Texas, to draw 
forth a host of volunteers, whose moral influence shall 
make " the solitary place glad, and the desert rejoice 
and blossom as the rose." 

Individuals whose sympathies may become enlisted 
in behalf of Texas, will hazard nothing in embarking 
on a missionary enterprise, upon their own responsi- 
biUty. Nowhere is the worthy stranger made more 
welcome than in Texas. The warm bosom expands, 

and the friendly hand is extended, making him forget 
2» 



18 TEXAS IN 1850. 

that " he is a stranger in a strange land." No one who 
has the desire of benefiting Texas, need be deterred 
from the undertaking from apprehensions of not meet- 
ing a cordial reception. People who are using their 
utmost power to advance the best interests of their 
state, will gladly welcome those who come to do them 
good. Indeed, every facility and encouragement is 
offered which is in their power to extend. 

Privations may be experienced, but these the liberal- 
hearted individual must reasonably expect, and make 
all due allowance. He that is actuated by the superior 
motive of doing good, will find all his sacrifices more 
than compensated by the satisfaction arising from acts 
of disinterested benevolence. 

" There is no man who hath left" home and country 
" for the kingdom of God's sake, who shall not receive 
manifold more in this present life, and in the world to 
come life everlasting." Our Saviour, in his dispensa- 
tions of grace to man, made worldly sacrifice an indis- 
pensable condition, and the more fully this condition is 
complied with, the more ample is the reward. Hence, 
to surrender earthly good for the inestimable blessings 
of the gospel, should be esteemed an exalted privilege 
by every real Christian. 

No one has brighter hopes, richer joys, or surer 
promises than he who labors for the Lord. Tlie fol- 
lower of Christ must follow where his Master leads, 
and though the command imphes the sundering of the 
dearest ties of nature, those tender chords will yield 
their hold under the influence of motives in which the 



TEXAS IN 1860. 19 

" kingdom of God " is concerned. Had natural affec- 
tion been designed the highest springs of action, the 
Saviour would not have set another principle above 
them. " He that loveth father or mother more than 
me is not worthy of me," is the language of Him who 
nobly set an example of sacrifice and suffering. The 
missionary spirit is emphatically the spirit of Christ, 
and those who drink most deeply at this blessed foun- 
tain, are those from whose example and influence flow 
rivers of living waters. 

The ground the missionary of Christ occupies is a 
high point. The sacrifices he makes brings him in ^ 
possession of privileges which secure every blessing 
the most boundless wish can crave — " The length and 
breadth of all the plain, as far as faith can see." 

Treasures, richer far than the golden mines of Cali- 
fornia, are pledged upon the security of the word of 
God ; and shall the servant of Christ disregard objects 
of real value, while worldly men are constrained by 
glittering dust, to endure sacrifice, labor and fatigue ? 

Scores and hundreds are rushing to secure an 
earthly treasure ; and are there not those who are will- 
ing to embark in an enterprise in which are concerned 
interests of immortal value ? What object can compare 
to that of gathering into the fold of Christ souls which 
have cost an infinite price to redeem ? One soul 
brought in, adds to the Saviour's crown a gem of more 
real value, than all the glittering mines of Mexico or 
California. 

Are there not Christians to be found among the 



20 TEXAS IN 1850. 

highly favored portions of our country, who can be in- 
fluenced by such heaven-born principles, to come out 
upon that mission of mercy which brought the Son of 
God from the bosom of his Father ? Love to the undy- 
ing soul will always bear to action. 

The Saviour is loudly saying to those of his follow- 
ers " who are at ease in Zion," " one thing lackest thou 
yet;" resign the enjoyments and privileges of which 
you are now possessed for my sake, for building up the 
spiritual walls of Zion abroad, " and thou shalt have 
treasure in heaven." 

He bids, follow him, wherever his cause demands. 
Texas comes up with her wants, and makes an impor- 
tunate appeal. Who will obey the Divine command ? 



CHAPTER II. 

Texas compared with other States. Inducements for the Emigration 
of the Farmer and Mechanic. Prospect and Enconrageraent of 
the Emigrant. Improvements. Natural Scenery. Flowers. Phys- 
ical Resources. State of Society. Moral Institutions. Prosperi- 
ty of the Temperance Cause. 

An impartial observer of the comparative merits of 
Texas with the older States, might, with much propri- 
ety, recommend it as presenting advantages worthy the 
attention of the adventurous and enterprising. The 
fertile lands with which the State abounds, oiFer, per- 
haps, greater encouragement than any other depart- 
ment of enterprise ; hence, the emigrant who turns his 
attention to the cultivation of the soil is undoubtedly 
making the wisest selection. This being an inexhaust- 
ible source of wealth can be relied on with greater 
confidence than any other. 

The acquisition of industrious and enterprising occu- 
rants of the productive soil of Texas, would do more in 
advancing the state in wealth and independence than 
any other means, and would, undoubtedly, in the course 
of a few years, advance her in importance before any 
other Southern State. 

Present appearances indicate that her extensive for- 
ests and beautiful wide-spread prairies shall not long 
remain uncultivated. Scarcely a day passes which 
does not bring more or less persons who are seeking 



22 TEXAS IN 1850. 

homes in Texas. The emigrant's wagon and train is a 
sight of such common occurrence, that it scarcely ex- 
cites a passing notice. Several in succession are fre- 
quently seen. 

It is not an inferior order of citizens who come to 
Texas. Men of wealth, talent and influence compose 
the more recent class of emigration, who are well cal- 
culated to advance the interests of a new and growing 
State. 

Persons of industrious and temperate habits will be 
successful in any honorable occupation. Mechanics, of 
all the various kinds, are essentially needed ; and would 
not fail of being amply compensated, in leaving older 
settled States and emigrating to a new one, where a 
scarcity in every department exists. As every thing 
is of the progressive order in Texas, the new settler has 
much to anticipate, and the hope of a better state of 
things in prospect has a tendency to reconcile him to 
present inconveniences. 

He may, probably, realize some privations of comfort, 
but whoever comes to Texas with reasonable expecta- 
tions, will not be hable to disappointment. And here 
it may be proper to observe, that persons emigrating to 
a new country should not indulge in such exalted ex- 
pectations as is too frequently the case with those who 
become dissatisfied. 

They should duly count the cost, and not speculate 
too extensively in imagination. Though difficulties and 
discouragements often cast their darkening shadows, 
yet, he who keeps his eye upon the star of hope, will 



TEXAS IN 1850. 23 

ultimately be successful. Many who have come to 
Texas to repair broken fortunes, though they did not 
meet with an immediate flow of wealth, have, by inde- 
fatigable and persevering exertion, realized their expect- 
ations. 

A competency may be easily acquired ; and affluence 
is at the command of those who aspire to it. He who 
keeps his speculations within a laudable compass, can- 
not fail, ultimately, of rising to independence and 
wealth. 

Nature has done much for Texas, but for her advance- 
ment in wealth and commercial importance, great im- 
provements are requisite. These, however, will proba- 
bly receive attention as soon as the circumstances of the 
State will admit. With the enterprise of the Texians 
much may be predicted. No obstacles have ever yet 
defeated the skill and enterprise of man, in that they 
are determined to carry into execution. For the truth 
of this, reference need only be made to the gigantic 
improvements spread over the United States. What 
was considered by the timid and irresolute, as imprac- 
ticable, has, nevertheless, been accomplished. An im- 
mediate improvement in the navigation of the rivers 
would facilitate greatly the prosperity of the State ; and 
it would not, unquestionably, be an unwise arrangement 
for the general Government to make some appropri- 
ations to aid such an important object. As public ex- 
penditures have been made in behalf of other portions 
of the United States, it might reasonably be expected 
that the wants of Texas should be taken into considera- 



24 TEXAS IN 1850. 

tion. Texas being a border State a double reason im- 
poses itself. The successful navigation of the rivers 
would facilitate greatly the transportation of stores for 
the supply of the military stations upon the frontiers of 
the State, and hence the object is one sufficiently impor- 
tant to ehcit aid, if only from that consideration. The 
unprecedented rapidity with which her interests have 
advanced within the space of a very short time, pre- 
sents great encouragement to extend aid in prosecuting 
objects which have for their design the general interest 
and prosperity. Where, but a few years since, the 
stillness of the forest was only broken by the war-whoop 
of the Indian, is heard the constant hum of civihzation, 
having become the abode of an industrious and intel- 
ligent population. This, most emphatically, is a period 
of improvements in Texas. Emigrants are pouring in, 
forests are being leveled, prairies are being fenced, 
farms are being opened and inproved, villages are 
springing up, and towns are increasing in population, 
throughout the State, to an extent not surpassed by 
any other portion of the Union. 

The natural scenery of Texas may compare with that 
of any other country. The face of the country, being 
generally level, there is not so much variety, as in 
countries interspersed with mountain scenery, yet, if it 
does not abound with the subhme, it certainly does with 
the beautiful. The beauty of the vegetable productions 
cannot fail of inspiring the most pure and delightful 
emotions. 
* Nothing can exceed the splendid appearance which 



TEXAS IN 1850. 25 

the prairies present, during the season of flowers. It 
seems as if the earth has poured forth her innumerable 
treasures to deck herself in her most gorgeous attire. 

A traveller, passing through Texas, during the 
months of April and May, would not fail of pronouncing 
it to be the most charming spot on earth. Every 
variety of flower is abundant, presenting a scene cal- 
culated to awaken a passion for natural objects, in 
bosoms which have never before loved to admire the 
wonderful works of creation. 

Those plants, which in the North are regarded as 
the choicest exotics, grow in Texas spontaneously ; but 
by transplanting into gardens, their beauty is greatly 
heightened. A rich source of pleasure is presented to 
those persons who delight in the cultivation of flowers. 
So little care is requisite, and the attention is so amply 
rewarded, it appears that the neglect of attention to 
the cultivation of flowers in Texas, must evidently be 
regarded as a want of good taste. 

Nothing presents a greater evidence of refinement 
than a tasteful adornment of dwellings and their envi- 
rons, with trees and flowers ; and it would be a great 
advance towards refined and decent civilization in Texas, 
if more attention were paid to the transplanting of forest 
trees and shrubbery around the buildings. It would 
improve greatly the appearance of the towns and vil- 
lages. 

In the North great pains are taken for this purpose, 
merely for ornament, but in the ^' sunny South," shade 
trees answer the double purpose — ornament and use. 



28 TEXAS IN 1859, 

Some degree of attention to the cultivation of flow- 
ers is observable, but nothing in comparison to what 
might be done in a country where so little trouble is 
demanded to render every garden like another Eden. 

The natural and physical resources of the country 
being so great, an inferiority in her moral and intellect- 
ual, would appear an incongruity which is entirely incon- 
sistent. These, however, are on the advance in Texas. 
Moral sentiment is assuming an elevated standard, from 
which may be inferred, that her future character will be 
on a level with the most moral portion of the Union. 
The addition to society from the older States within the 
last few years, being a refined class of people, has had 
a tendency to polish, greatly, the roughness of charac- 
ter and manners observable in newly settled countries. 
From actual observation, it may be confidently asserted, 
that in point of intelligence, refinement and gentility, 
Texas will bear a favorable comparison with any other 
State, according to its population. There may be some 
exceptions, — dark shades of character blend their con- 
trasts in the society of every country. 

The uncouthness of the early settlers of Texas is 
greatly modified by their kindness (5f manner, which is 
a very prominent characteristic, and cannot fail of strik- 
ing the stranger with the impression of its being a more 
perfect specimen of politeness, than is often observable 
where society claims a high degree of refinement under 
the false show of affectation. 

One who knows how to set a just appreciation upon 
character, cannot fail of admiring the native simplicity 



TEXAS IN 1850 



27 



observable in traveling over tlie older settled portions of 
Texas. Inquisitiveness is a marked characteristic, and 
the Yankee might find his privilege of " asking two 
questions to any other person asking one," some^Yhat 
infringed upon. But this advantage would be readily 
yielded to gratify the curiosity, so evidently manifested 
on the part of the Texian, to know all the " whys " and 
" wherefores," where from and where bound — interrog- 
ativcs to which he apparently seems to claim an explan- 
ation. An immediate submission to a Texian tribunal 
is much the safest, as a hesitancy in giving an account 
of oneself might excite suspicion. A keen penetration, 
superinduced by being often imposed upon, leads Tex- 
ians to much carefulness in regard to strangers ; and no 
one need come to Texas with the presumption of prac- 
tising the least act of dissimulation, without being set 
oif to the best advantage in the colors he has assumed. 

A " Yankee trick " would meet with its just desert 
under Texian inspection ; and if some of those false rep- 
resentatives of New England character wished to " play 
off" a little, Texas would afford a suitable stage to act on. 
While true worth is acknowledged and appreciated, dis- 
simulation and dishonesty receive their just retribution. 

Texas has suffered greatly in her moral reputation 
abroad, by serving formerly as an asylum for refugees 
from justice from the United States ; but whether she 
ought to suffer or the country from which they abscond- 
ed, the reader can best judge. That her extensive 
wilds w^ere souglit as a shelter to screen from retribu- 
tion was no evidence that crime was tolerated, or that 



28 . TEXAS IN 1850. 

the offender was protected by the citizens. Where those 
cases of moral depravity are at present, whether meta- 
morphosed into virtuous citizens, or emigrated beyond 
the limits of Texas, is a matter of curiosity. Crime is 
no more common than in the older States, and, as the 
State has now a penitentiary, a rigid intolerance is 
expected, and a strict retribution will be exacted of those 
who transgress her laws. 

Societies and institutions which have for their object 
moral reform, are encouraged, and becoming common 
throughout the State. 

The hallowed influence of the " Sons of Temperance '* 
has spread its blissful light, and the strong armed foe of 
intemperance is fast losing ground in Texas. The last 
year has witnessed an interesting change. Nothing 
has ever yet occurred in Texas more significant of her 
future weal, than the manner in which public sentiment 
has been operated upon, in regard to the importance of 
this institution. But about eighteen months ago the 
first Division was instituted ; now there is scarcely a 
town in the state which has not followed the example. 
It is a fact worthy of notice, that nothing is done imper- 
fectly in Texas ; if an object receives attention at all, 
the people enter into the spirit of it with an enthusias- 
tic devotion. The temperance cause has struck upon 
the right chord, and, if perseveringly adhered to, its 
advent may be hailed as- the harbinger of every other 
good thing with which a country can be blessed. 

Wherever this cause prevails, vice and immorality 
vanish like dew before the morning sun, and peace and 
prosperity follow in happy succession. 



TEXAS IN 1850. 29 

An independence, more decisive of noble purpose 
and future good, than was ever achieved upon the bat- 
tle plain, is that which places a people beyond the reach 
of the most formidable enemy that ever yet invaded 
the human family. Despotism may enslave the body, 
and the mind still retain its freedom ; but intemperance 
subjects its votaries to the entire dominion of body and 
soul — debases man to a brute, and most effectually 
destroys the best works of creation. A view of the 
destructive consequences of intemperance upon a large 
scale, must necessarily strike every philanthropic soul 
w^ith horror, and stimulate him in the use of the most 
efficient measures for the prevention of an evil so dele- 
terious to the best interests of a country. 

The temperance cause, as now instituted, seems bet- 
ter adapted to effect its object, than any system which 
has been hitherto adopted. The order has been object- 
ed to by some, on the ground of its being a secret asso- 
ciation, but, as its object and effects are so apparent, 
the most scrupulous objector cannot regard it to be 
treasonable or subversive of public good. Secret socie- 
ties are dangerous only when their design is not under- 
stood. 

As the cause of humanity, as the cause of every- 
thing to which pertains human happiness, is that which 
would drive from a country that piratical invader — 
intemperance. To succeed effectually, it will be neces- 
sary to imbue public sentiment with the impressive stamp, 
which shall render the use of ardent spirit so entirely 
unpopular as to discontinue its use among those who 

3* 



30 TEXAS IN 1850. 

regard themselves temperate. The cause has 'never 
succeeded permanently, until the popular mind became 
universally enlisted, and it has evidently demanded the 
total abstinence of the " moderate drinker " to restrain 
the inebriate. Who, that is a friend to humanity, can 
withhold his influence in co-operating in a work so 
fraught with good as this ? Neglect this important sub- 
ject, and an evil is percolating through the basis of 
moral institutions, which shall turn them, however firm 
they may now appear, into quicksand, which shall waste 
away the country's dearest hopes, and bury in deep 
and eternal ruin the souls of the people. As Texians 
love their country, the dearest interests of their pos- 
terity, the salvation of their fellow men and the honor 
of God, let them ever stand forth as firm champions of 
the cause of temperance. 

May they go forth and gather in the morally blind, 
for whom the institution is mainly intended. May they 
cease not their efforts, until every inebriate throughout 
the State, from the Sabine to the Rio Grande, from the 
Snowy Mountain to the Southern Gulf, be made to 
share in freedom, happiness and immortality. 



. CHAPTER III. 

Church and School Foundation of Civil and Religious Liberty. Dif- 
ficulties of sustaining the Christian Heligion in the early times of 
Texas. Its Success and Future Prospects. The Gospel Ministry. 
An Efficient Ministry, The Necessity of Supporting the Ministry. 
The Standard of Piety should become more elevated. 

The Church and the School were the agencies em- 
ployed in laying the foundation of civil and religious 
liberty in the popular mind of our country. If the 
structure reared by our fathers is to be perfected in 
beauty and strength, the Christian Church in its purity, 
and the well ordered School must be reared, as institu- 
tions which God approves and emploj^s in the accom- 
plishment of his benevolent purposes to man. When 
these united influences shall be seen and felt through- 
out the land, we may congratulate the country's pros- 
perity, as fixed upon a foundation which shall defy all 
forms of despotism, civil and spiritual. 

In devising means for the improvement of Texas, 
those large and comprehensive plans should be under- 
stood, which always have been, and ever will be, the 
only sure basis of national prosperity. While Ed- 
ucation enhghtens, Christianity should sanctify, and 
and these two mighty agents in co-operation will ad- 
vance a country in all that which pertains to true great- 
ness and goodness. 

The Christian Religion has been sustained in Texas 



32 TEXAS IN 1850, 

under very trying circumstances ; and the signal mani- 
festations of Divine favor in its behalf, affords encour- 
agement to hope that God has yet great designs to ac- 
complish in this part of his moral vineyard. Catholicism 
has been supplanted, and over its broken altars has 
been reared the Protestant faith, which has shown that 
an open Bible and a dissemination of its principles has 
a power in enlightening and purifying the mind in re- 
gard to all those things pertaining to the well-being of 
man, here and hereafter. 

The pioneers of the Gospel in Texas had innumera- 
ble difficulties to encounter, and evidently required a 
true missionary zeal to plant the standard of the Cross 
in this then destitute land. The seed of truth was 
sown at the expense of many a valuable life, and may 
an abundant harvest yet be reaped over the dust of 
those who have fallen victims to the intense labors at- 
tached to a Texian ministry. But many of those faith- 
ful laborers still survive to witness that their labors 
have not been in vain in the Lord. A foxmdation has 
been laid, upon which may be erected a structure 
whose beauty may -yet attract wonder and admiration. 
Much yet remains to be done. The work is but com- 
menced ; the most powerful and efficient means are yet 
required to accomphsh it. The best indication is the 
degree of feeling manifested to have the institutions of 
the Gospel extended throughout the State. Yet, a 
deeper feeling is necessarj'-, ere we sec Texas shining 
forth in that moral beauty, which her importance in 
the eye of Heaven demands. Her own strength must be 



TEXAS IN 1850. 33 

rallied and brought into exercise before sympathy from 
abroad can be enlisted in her behalf. 

Plans must be devised and executed commensurate 
with the great end in view ; it is wisdom to select the 
best means for the accomplishment of purposes in 
which the highest interests of a country are concerned. 
If the prosperity of a country outruns its Religious and 
Literary institutions, its elevation will be of short con- 
tinuance. These institutions must be sustained in Texas 
to perpetuate her prosperity, and it is the highest point 
of wisdom in the prosecution of a work so important, to 
enter upon it with a spirit suitable to the object, and to 
secure the most powerful co-operative influences. 

The preaching of the Gospel is heaven's consecrated 
instrumentality in disseminating those principles by 
which society can alone be sustained. Much destitu- 
tion yet exists in regard to the stated preaching of the 
Word ; the harvest in many places is ripe, but there 
are no laborers to enter in. The church in Texas is yet 
weak, but it is evident that there is more lack of action 
and efficiency than means in sustaining the institutions 
of the Gospel. That aid is not extended in supporting 
the ministry which the faithful dispensation of the Gos- 
pel requires. Ministers poorly supported, and depend- 
ent upon their own resources, are necessarily obliged 
to turn their attention to secular employments ; conse- 
quently, they cannot dispense the Gospel with that 
ability and success which an exclusive devotion to the 
cause would enable them to do. The present period 
requires singleness of heart and purpose in the minis- 



34 TEXAS IN 1850. 

try, and an undivided attention to its appropriate du- 
ties. The minister of Jesus Christ holds an office, 
which is connected with duties, responsibilities and dif- 
ficulties, far surpassing those connected with any other 
office ever entrusted to man. Connected with his official 
duties are consequences which have a direct bearing 
upon the immortal interests of the soul. Officers of other 
departments of public duty are duly compensated for 
service, and shall not those who are laboring to pro- 
mote the well-being of man in this and a future life, be 
deemed worthy of receiving a competent support ? Let 
the church cherish the right kind of feeling upon this 
subject, and it will discharge its duty to him who stands 
upon the walls of Zion ! The standard, according to 
the Bible, must be attained. It appears that it is not 
generally understood that " It is ordained, that they 
who preach the gospel, shall live of the gospel," and 
that " The laborer is worthy of his hire." 

Qualifications for any station must always correspond 
with the design and consequences connected with the 
duties ; hence it becomes the minister of the gospel to 
avail himself of every aid, human and divine, which 
is in his power. The responsibility does not devolve 
entirely upon the minister ; he may have a just appre- 
ciation of his important calling, but may not have the 
means extended, necessary to the faithful accomplish- 
ment of his duties. 

If the erroneous impression be indulged that the man 
of God does not need time and study to prepare him 
for the successful performance of his duties, his labors 



TEXAS IN 1850. 85 

will not be appreciated, nor will he have that support 
to which he is entitled by the decree of heaven. 

A blessing attends the preaching of God's word where 
it is sustained according to gospel principles, and no 
Christian duty is more strongly enjoined upon the 
church than liberal appropriations for that purpose. 

" The Lord loveth a cheerful giver." " There is 
that scattereth, and yet increaseth ; there is that with- 
holdeth more than is meet, and it tendeth to poverty. 

In a country like Texas it is pre-eminently important 
that the minister should receive an adequate support. 
In the first place, his labors are of the most arduous 
kind, such as are calculated to dishearten and dispirit 
the most resolute ; and, aid on the part of the people 
would be a demonstration of their sympathy, which 
would have a tendency to encourage him, greatly, in 
his laborious calling. In the second place, society is in 
^a forming state, and requires great skill and efficiency 
in dispensing the word of God, in such a manner as 
will be adapted to the wants of a people made up 
of every variety of sentiment. It is absolutely neces- 
sary that the minister be thoroughly prepared and 
properly furnished, to enable him to dispense the word 
of life in a manner by which the gospel may be 
honored. 

It may be regarded a wise arrangement of Provi- 
dence which imposes this duty on man. By contribut- 
ing to the support of the gospel a deeper interest is felt 
in its ministrations, and in many instances operates, as 
an inducement for persons to attend the ordinances of 



36 TEXAS IN 1850. 

God's worship, bj which means thej have become par- 
ticipants of the rich blessings of the gospel. 

The duty does not devolve entirely upon the Church, 
though it is expected it will lead the way in enterprises 
like this. The Gospel is " good news to all people," 
and who can be so blind to his best interests, as to be 
disinterested in its promulgation ? Every human being 
for whom Christ died has an interest in this matter, 
and no one can manifest an indifference in sustaining 
the institutions of the Gospel, without showing disre- 
spect to the last command of Jesus Christ to his disciples, 
" Go ye into all the world and preach the Gospel to 
every creature ^^^ and the awful denunciation against 
those who reject it must evidently be fulfilled against 
them. When the people can see this subject as God 
sees it, and as they must see it in eternity, the preach- 
ing of the Gospel will be sustained in a manner worthy 
its great and important object. 4 

For the credit of Texas, there are few places where 
an intelligent and pious ministry is not commended and 
respected. Good congregations can always be secured, 
and a good degree of interest is manifested in hearing 
the word of God dispensed, and, probably, the reason 
that more ample aid is not extended in support of the 
ministry, is because the subject and its importance has 
not been properly set before the people. 

It is confidently hoped that the evil will be remedied 
as soon as the minds and hearts of the people, strength- 
ened by piety, shall become impressed with the value 
and importance of the subject. Expansive views of 



TEXAS IN 1850. 37 

Christian benevolence are more consistent for people 
■who have become proverbial for liberal and elevated 
sentiment. It may reasonably be expected that the 
time is not far distant when an enthusiasm becoming; 
our holy religion, shall be kindled upon the altar of 
every heart, and the ordinances of God's worship be 
duly appreciated and honored, and efficient measures 
used to support them throughout the length and 
breadth of this beautiful State. 

When this subject has acquired that interest which 
its importance demands, more aid from abroad will be 
elicited, and the now barren wastes supplied with able 
ministers of the New Testament. The supply, at pre- 
sent, is far inadequate to the wants of the population. 
Many more devoted men — men qualified to gather 
congregations and plant churches where no foundation 
has been laid, are needed in Texas. 

The best men should be sent to a new country. 
There cannot be a greater mistake, than that ministers 
of inferior qualifications will do for Texas. The mate- 
rial which has to be operated on, requires the ablest 
skill to mould. Intel; igence among the people enables 
them at once to take the measure of a man's talents ; 
and to secure that influence which a preacher of the 
Gospel should possess to be useful to the people, requires 
that he should have a th^rougb intellectual education. 

It seems peculiarly necessary in Texa^, that the 
standard of scriptural piHy in the ministry and the 
members of the Church, should assume a higher eleva- 
tion. In order to carry those enterprises into successful 



38 TEXAS IN 1850. 

operation for the religious advancement of the State, 
the Church must exert her legitimate influence, as a 
light which cannot be hid. The ministers are to lead 
the way ; and a high responsibility rests upon them, 
that the permanent and enlarged prosperity of this 
growing State be secured. 



CHAPTER IV. 

Church and School Buildings. Scarcity in Texas, Importance of 
Early Attention to these Objects. Want of Teachers, Co-opera- 
tion of the North with the South in advancing the Cause of Edu- 
cation. Free School System. Importance and Advantage to 
Texas. Extract from the Governor's Message. 

A stranger passing through one of the mountain 
towns of New England, inquired, " What do you raise 
here ? " The answer was, " Our land is rough and poor, 
and we can raise but little produce, so we build churches 
and school houses and raise men." New England is, 
very justly, the praise of the civilized world for the 
number and neatness of its Church and Seminary build- 
ings. A better example for imitation has never been, 
than that presented by the " Pilgrims " and their 
descendants. These objects claimed a pre-eminent im- 
portance in their estimation at the period of the coun- 
tr3^'s settlement, and the sentiment has descended to 
posterity. On an eminence in New England, an ob- 
server remarks, that he counted the spires of 57 churches, 
which fact afforded a theme for contemplation of the 
religious character of the country. No better index 
of- the country's character can be presented, than the 
degree of attention which is rendered to these manufac- 
tories of public good. 

Were a New England traveller to pass through Texas, 
his curiosity might be excited ; not, however, on account 



40 TEXAS IN 1850. 

of the barren and unproductive wastes of land which 
might meet his view, but the great scarcity of Churches 
and School houses might attract his attention and be 
the subject of his inquiries. Oftentimes the superior 
physical resources of a country for wealth engrosses so 
much attention, as to prevent those other objects being 
attended to as their importance demands. The people 
of Texas may be subject to this temptation, and in their 
haste to be rich and mighty, they may outrun their lit- 
erary and religious institutions. These objects, however, 
have received a good degree of attention, but not, as 
yet, sufficient to meet the moral and intellectual wants 
of the people. Institutions for literary and moral 
instruction are in operation in various parts of the 
State, in different stages of progress. In many places, 
the school house and church of God are found side by 
side, showing that education and religion are twin sis- 
ters, and should not be dissevered. Much destitution 
yet exists, but the disadvantages attending a new coun- 
try affords some grounds of excuse. It is evident, 
however, that Texas has not done as much as some other 
countries have, under the same circumstances. Did 
these objects hold as high a place in public estimation 
as they ought, those buildings for moral and intellectual 
improvement would oftener greet the eye of the travel- 
ler than they now do. Would Texians give their coun- 
try a good reputation at home and abroad, let it bear 
the sign which may serve as an unfailing index of its 
real happiness and prosperity. 

To secure a country's prosperity, God must be hon- 



TEXAS IN 1850. 41 

ored and worshiped ; and though the Invisible One is 
not confined to temples made with hands, yet his sanc- 
tuary is a place in which he has ever been pleased to 
manifest his power and glory, and in which he has set 
his name for adoration and worship. The broad expanse 
of territory pertaining to Texas, will, probably, in the 
course of a few years, become populated ; and can the 
hope be indulged that over the beautiful prairies will be 
scattered, here and there, houses in which to worship 
God? 

The importance of church edifices must be taken into 
consideration at an early period, and consecrations made 
for the object. Desires will create resources, and efforts 
for the accomplishment of objects will always correspond 
with the manner in which they arc appreciated. Wealth 
is not the motive power alone, which puts this machin- 
ery of public good in motion ; it may be advanced with 
comparatively small means, as is proven by New Eng- 
land example. AVhen will Southern people imitate this 
pre-eminent, praise-worthy example, and make their 
superior means of wealth subserve its most important 
end, that of contributing to the honor of God and the 
happiness of man ! 

To whom are we to look for engraving this sentiment 
upon the public mind ? To the Church and her minis- 
ters evidently belong the responsibilities of diffusing 
Gospel principles, of which this bears a prominent part. 
"With the exception of those found in the cities and 
large towns, there are very few church edifices whose 
appearance manifests that taste and neatness Avhicli is 

4* 



42 TEXAS IN 1850. 

desirable to see in buildings dedicated to so sacred a 
purpose. A certain degree of elegance attaches a res- 
pect for the house of God, which is not felt for a rudely 
constructed building, erected, seemingly, without due 
regard to its design. 

With the public spirit manifested by Texans in every 
thing which pertains to the interests of their State, we 
may confidently expect this deficiency will be remedied ; 
and anticipation ventures to cast the eye forward to the 
period, when the lofty spire shall lift its sacred head 
over every Texian village, showing that the Gospel is 
there proclaimed, with " peace on earth and good will 
to man." 

Education is receiving a good degree of attention in 
Texas, but the country is not suflSciently supplied with 
teachers or such as are regularly taught in their pro- 
fession. The great scarcity in the State often obliges 
the people to employ those who are not competent to 
assume the important responsibility of instructing the 
youthful mind, Pubfic sentiment is, in a measure, 
awake to the importance of securing good teachers ; and 
sufficient inducement, in the way of pecuniary compen- 
sation, is extended, to encourage a greater emigration 
than has been hitherto. As few school teachers are 
manufactured in the South, the North and East is the 
source from whence the supply is to be expected. 

A broad field presents itself into which a host of 
laborers might enter and cultivate with advantage ahd 
success. Those persons who conscientiously feel the 
important responsibility attached to youthful instruction, 



TEXAS IN 1850. 43 

and are desirous of finding locations of extensive useful- 
ness, could not fail of meeting -with abundant success in 
Texas. 

Who among the highly favored of New England's 
products will come and cultivate the rich soil of Texan 
mind ? The individual enterprise of intelligent and 
self sacrificing teachers is demanded in behalf of educa- 
ting the youth of this interesting and important State. 
Are there not those who will volunteer their services to 
advance an object so important as this ? A moral and 
intellectual influence would pour forth its genial rays, 
did New England feel and act as her means warrant 
her to do. Would her seminaries and literary institu- 
tions send more of their educated sons and daughters 
abroad, great good would be the result. 

An important obligation imposes itself upon the North 
to aid the educational interests of the South. The al- 
liance of common interest demands a co-operation in 
promoting those institutions which have for their object 
the general good. The educational interests of the United 
States, as a whole, should be taken into consideration ; 
and those States which have long felt the benign influ- 
ence of science and literature, should feel themselves 
bound by duty and obligation to extend those influences 
into less favored portions of country. 

No person reared and matured amid the institutions 
of the North can conscientiously disregard the duty of 
imparting an influence which may be felt for good in 
less favored portions of the Union. It becomes neces- 
sary for the different parts, to prompt, encourage and 
aid each other in matters of general interest. 



44 TEXAS IN 1850. 

For a people who wisfi to perpetuate and consolidate 
their Union, a fraternal fellowship in all matters 
pertaining to their institutions, must be manifested. 
Motives sufficiently powerful to excite the philanthropic 
feelings of all those who regard the best interest of 
their fellow being, are presented, for them to use the 
means within their power for the promotion of objects 
which must necessarily reflect the influence imparted 
them for the good of the country and world at large. 

For education to be upon an improved and ele- 
vated plan, it appeals, loudly, to be extended to all 
classes, and embrace the general instruction of the 
youth of the land. 

Throughout every part of the United States, such a 
school system should be adopted and established, as 
will lay a broad and respectable foundation for the 
instruction of the great body of the people. Such a 
measure would rescue the poor from ignorance, and 
would ultimately free the country from those conse- 
quences which every enlightened republican ought most 
to dread and deplore. The establishment of schools by 
law over Texas, would greatly conduce to promote the 
happiness and perpetuate the liberties of the people. 

The happy effect of such schools, has been demon- 
strated by experience, in various parts of the United 
States, and their adaptation to this rising State, every 
person, Avho consults its best interests, must admit. 

Education will be limited, as is proven in all coun- 
tries where the free school system is excluded, to only 
the favored part of community, which are blessed with 



TEXAS IN 1850. 45 

the means, while the poorer class grow up in ignorance, 
unfit for society, or any degree of usefulness in the 
world. The brightest geniuses may remain buried be- 
neath the rubbish of ignorance, which under the bles- 
sings of the free school system might have been brought 
out and received a polish, whose brightness would have 
been a blessing to the world. 

How much of the mental power of the rising genera- 
tion of Texas is to be left uncultivated, is for the rulers 
of this interesting State to decide. 

It is very evident that it is indispensable to the well 
being of this growing State, to disseminate knowledge, 
and cultivate the full amount of its mental strength. It 
is a startling fact that the human mind cannot remain 
inert. The mental energies of free born Americans 
must necessarily become aroused and developed, and 
are available for good or for evil. It has been very 
justly observed that " uneducated mind is educated 
vice," and it may be found that more expensive means 
will be required to punish crime, (the necessary result 
of ignorance,) than to educate the youth of Texas in 
the paths of virtue and knowledge. 

The machinery of popular education properly set to 
work would operate as a mighty instrument :il ty in ad 
vancing moral elevation, by approaching the mass of 
hidden intellect in the land, and most effectually manu 
facture the ri:ing generation into jiseful and virtuous 
citizens. 

The hopes of a country, its liberty, and all that makes 



46 TEXAS IN 1850. 

it great and durable, can never fail, when its youth have 
been properly trained and educated. 

An immediate action of the legislature in the appro- 
priation of means which it possesses, for establishing and 
supporting free schools, might settle a point upon 
which are suspended interests of deep and lasting im- 
portance to Texas. A delay is rendering the matter 
still more impracticable, and the future prospects will 
become darker and darker. Unless this subject receive 
attention in the early condition of a country, it rarely 
ever acquires that estimation and permanency, which 
it does by growing up in the practice and blessing of it. 
Obstacles present themselves in every important under- 
taking, and require an eifort in surmounting, and in 
this, the object might, with much propriety, demand an 
extra effort. It must be an object of legislative provi- 
sion. Reliance cannot be had on the resources of 
individuals. 

However much the popular mind may be impressed 
with the importance of such an institution, a limit is 
placed, which can only be removed by those who are 
called to legislate. Other subjects of importance claim 
the attention of the legislature, and it seems that the 
neglect of action upon this subject is an undue estimate 
upon objects according to their comparative importance. 

It may be thought a degree of arrogance and pre- 
sumption to carry tjje suggestion on this subject any 
farther ; but waiving an extreme sensibility and reserve, 
we shall farther suggest the propriety of inserting an 
extract from the governor's message, which will give an 



TEXAS IN 1850. 47 

exhibition of the matter, as it is viewed by his Excel- 
lency. 

" The constitution of our State enjoins upon the Le- 
gislature the duty of making suitable provision, as 
early as practicable, for the support and mainte- 
nance of free public schools. It also expressly sets 
apart and reserves for this purpose, one tenth of the 
annual revenue accruing from taxation. The amount 
of this fund in the treasury on the j&rst day of this 
month, (Nov. 1849,) was $25,503 82. It will require 
no labored discussion to impress upon your minds the 
importance of education. The framers of our state con- 
stitution wisely declared that a general diffusion of 
knowledge is essential to the preservation of the 
rights and liberties of the people. No truth is more 
fully verified by all history. 

" Nations, however powerful in numbers and physical 
resources, can never hope to achieve or perpetuate moral 
and political freedom where ignorance prevails. The 
vitality of republican forms of government especially 
resides in the intelligence of the masses. An enligh1> 
ened people will neither be the dupes nor the victims of 
corrupt political leaders. How immeasurably impor- 
tant, then, it is for us to give early attention to the men- 
tal and moral improvement of the generation growing 
up among us. Let some just and feasible plan be 
adopted, to apply the means now in the treasury of the 
State to the subject, so as to produce the greatest 
amount of good to the greatest number. There is, it is 
true, not sufficient to establish and maintain a school in 



48 TEXAS IN 1850. 

every neighborhood. It may, however, be so distri- 
buted, under careful and competent supervision, as to 
aid the efforts of individuals, and go far in this way to 
encourage the cause of education. If it be permitted 
to lie in the treasury until it be sufficient to support 
public schools throughout the State, it will be useless 
for many years. In the meantime, those who are now 
children will have grown up to be men and citizens, 
and many of them, perhaps, without being able to read 
the tickets which they place in the ballot box. The 
consequences of such a result will not only be discredit- 
able to those w4io are at this day the guardians of the 
public weal, but equally unfortunate in their effects upon 
general society. Vice and crime, and a slavish subser- 
viency to dictation, are the usual concomitants of igno- 
ance. Let us arrest this state of things by timely 
action. Justice demands that the taxes paid by the 
present population of the State for education, should be 
devoted to that object without unnecessary delay. To 
hoard them for the benefit of the next generation 
would be as manifestly unfair, as it would in my opinion 
be unwise. The means at our disposal will do some- 
thing for the cause of education if judiciously applied. 
Let this be done at once, and there will be some secu- 
rity that the advantages thus conferred upon the pres- 
ent generation will yield abundant blessings upon the 
next." 



CHAPTER V. 

Progress of the Institutions of Texas. Moral and Religious Insti- 
tutions must keep pace with other Departments of Improvement. 
Moral Training of Youth. Education must be Evangelized. 
Adaptation of the Sabbath School. Its Prosperity and Importance. 
Necessity of Replenishing the Departments of Christian Enterprise. 
A Demand for Missionaries. Prospective Influence of Texas over 
Mexico. Necessity of raising Texas to a high point of Moral 
Power. The Consequent Effects upon Mexico. 

While we deplore the existing destitutions of Texas, 
we would not fail to acknowledge, with all due con- 
gratulation, the much that has been accomplished under 
the many difi5cult and disadvantageous circumstances. 
The progress of her institutions, considering the age 
and resources of the country, is in a great measure 
respectable, and flattering to the genius and enterprise 
of the people. It may reasonably be hoped that the 
rehgious and educational interests of the state are in 
a progressive condition, yet it becomes necessary to 
use all proper endeavors to stimulate to more enlarged 
efforts in the promotion of objects of such momentous 
importance. However rapidly the country has advanced 
in its physical, moral, and intellectual resources, within 
the last few years, the bow of promise and anticipation 
abides in the future. If the proper means are made 
to concentrate their forces, we may expect to advance 
in the future more rapidly than in the time past. The 
motives which urge all to co-operate iu the glorious 
5 



50 TEXAS IN 1850. 

work of consummating the institutions of Texas, essen- 
tial to the perpetuity of her greatness and glorj, are 
neither few, feeble or obscure. 

In rearing the first generation of her institutions, it 
becomes necessary that the proper foundation be 
secured, and it may not be an extravagant calculation 
to suppose that the proceedings of the next five years 
will more effectually decide the character which Texas 
is to sustain before the world, than in any other period 
of the past or future. 

When the extent and fertility of the country is taken 
into consideration, it is natural to conclude that its 
prosperity must advance with majestic power, and if 
those institutions, which are necessary to form the 
mind, conscience, and heart of the country, be permit- 
ted to linger, dreadful will be the consequences. What 
is done, must be done quickly, and we are driven to 
intelHgence and religion as our own sure guaranty. 
The people must not only be enlightened, but religious. 
Let no person who loves his country hesitate to look 
this subject full in the face, and adopt a course of con- 
duct which indicates earnest effort to educate the mass 
of the people, and bring them under the power of true 
religion. It is an evident fact, proven in every age 
of the world, that efforts in establishing the institutions 
of a pure and spiritual Christianity, are heaven's ap- 
pointed means, not only in saving men's souls, consider- 
ed as individuals, but also of national and social salva- 
tion. Upon the religion of the Bible rests, as upon a 
corner stone, the hopes of the country. The infidel 



TEXAS IN 1850. 51 

may scoff at the assumption, but posterity will find it 
true. In the Gospel of Christ, Texas is safe ; out of 
it, she is undone. If Texians desire to make their State 
truly great, and transmit to posterity institutions in 
primitive simplicity and force, they must imbue the 
minds of youth with a pure and elevated morality, 
which shall induce to habits of right action. The mind 
and heart of the child may be as certainly formed for 
good works by moral training, as the plant may be im- 
proved by careful culture. Though we would yield due 
honor to literature and science, we must not expect 
from them, what they are not able to perform. They 
must not be relied on as adequate for controlling the 
will and purifying the heart. 

For education to answer its great end it must be 
evangelized. We cannot look to denominational enter- 
prises to accomplish this work. Prejudices would de- 
bar the attempt of inoculating with any particular creed. 
Though denominational enterprises of an educational 
character are not to be disparaged, yet they cannot be 
relied on, as being sufficient to meet the demand of a 
people, as various in sentiment as are found in Texas. 

While we look to our literary institutions to educate 
the intellect, the more elevated training of a religious 
education is found in the Sabbath School. There it is 
entirely free from sectarian influence. Facts and re- 
sults, plainly show the necessity, adaptation and useful- 
ness of such a specific agent in advancing the interests 
of Tcxian evangelization, and the promotion of Chris- 
tian education among all classes. The missionary opera- 



52 TEXAS IN 1850. 

tions of the " American Sunday School Union " have 
been progressing with wonderful success, for the last 
three years ; and there is, evidently, no greater 
indication, in the present attitude of moral and reUgious 
affairs, for permanent good, than the favor which is 
shown to the present effort of that benevolent society to 
plant a Sunday school where there is population, 
throughout the State. 

Ministers and private members of all denominations 
are generally agreed, in regard to the importance and 
utility of such a system of religious instruction. 
Schools have been organized in various places, and 
thousands of children have been gathered into them and 
instructed in things pertaining to their duty to God and 
their fellow beings, and made familiar with the scrip- 
tures which are able to make wise unto salvation. 

Next to the Gospel ministry, the Sabbath school may 
be regarded as the most efficient instrument in the pro- 
motion of intelligent piety and instruction. In many 
instances it goes where the minister cannot be sent, (or 
if sent, supported,) and plants the seed which germi- 
nates, and, not unfrequently, matures into a church. 
Some young churches of good promise, are known to 
Lave had their origin in Sabbath schools, organized 
within the last three years. The great hope of the 
church in Texas is in securing the young, and as chil- 
dren constitute an extraordinary part of the population, 
the Sabbath school, as the nursery of the Church, can- 
not be too highly appreciated. It affords a means of 
grace when no other can be obtained, and by the dis- 



TEXAS IN 1850. 53 

semination of religious books is creating a taste for 
reading, and affording means of moral and intellectual 
culture for the ignorant and uncared for. Much of 
the ground of Texas has not yet been explored, from 
the fact that the field is too extensive for the operations 
of one agent. Sabbath schools might be organized in 
every settlement could the proper means be used. 

Many important points might be made highly interest- 
ing and promising, were the merits of the U. S. S. pro- 
perly understood. It would advance the moral inter- 
ests of Texas greatly, if the American Sunday School 
Union would send a reinforcement of one, or more, 
agents to aid the present one in establishing S. S. in 
destitute portions of the State. This mighty engine 
for good, has been started, and by its continuing to be 
propelled, would change the wilderness of moral dark- 
ness into the garden of the Lord. 

Every individual who desires the preservation of our 
civil and religious rights, the dissemination of intelli- 
gence, the spread of Bible light, and the banishment of 
ignorance, crime and every species of evil, will heart- 
ily and cordially contribute his influence and co-opera- 
tion in sustaining Sunday schools in Texas. 

The great desire which is manifested for intellectual 
and moral culture affords a promising indication, and 
were the means of improvement adequate to the de- 
mands, a high state of intelligence and piety might be 
guarantied to the future generation. 

This fact affords encouragement for those to labor 
who are already on the field, yet the heart often faints 



54 TEXAS IN 1850. 

in view of the expansiveness of the work, and the com- 
paratively limited means to accomplish it. Though 
there is intelligence, piety and energy in Texas, yet 
were it all embodied and made active, it would not be 
an agent sufficiently powerful to advance the work of 
moral and intellectual improvement, as rapidly as is 
requisite. 

An object is presented to the moral vision of Chris- 
tendom, sufficiently important to enlist an immediate 
and extensive co-operation. Were the various depart- 
ments of Christian enterprise replenished, Texas might 
soon gain moral strength adequate to her responsibili- 
ties. ' As a missionary field it has strong claims upon 
the sympathies, the prayers, and the efforts of Christians. 

One who looks at its wants and responsibilities, in 
the exercise of Christian philanthropy, cannot fail of 
being inspired with the most thrilling emotions, and 
must necessarily consider Texas, at this time, one of 
the most important and 'promising missionary fields on 
the western continent. 

A twofold reason presents itself — her own destitu- 
tion urges a claim for efforts in her behalf, and her con- 
tiguity to Mexico and consequent influence over that 
benighted republic demands that Texas should be, im- 
mediately, raised to a high point of moral power. Prov- 
idence is, in a very important manner, pointing out 
Texas as an agent to operate upon the Papal power in 
Mexico ; and shall not the evident indication be ob- 
served, and improved for the overthrow of error, and 
the upbuilding of truth in our land and country ? 



TEXAS IN 1850. 55 

Replenish her with the means, and no doubt she 
might prove an engine of moral power before which 
Catholicism would have to shrink. Let Texas stand 
beside Mexico, highly evangelized, and the contrast 
would serve to show the superiority of the Protestant 
over the CathoUc religion ; the tendency of which 
would be to constrain the degraded JMexicans to yield 
to the influence of that system of faith, which might 
elevate them to the like happy condition. 

Let Texas then be the rallying point around which 
influences of good shall be formed, and a weapon 
sharper than a two edged sword shall be unsheathed in 
IMexico, which shall pierce her false religion to the seat 
of life. 

In order to render Texas an efficient agent, it will 
require the co-operation of Christians at home and 
abroad. High ground must be taken, and maintained 
with firmness and decision. The pioneers of the cause 
of truth must take their stand upon the high table land 
of promise, and fix their eye upon the moral grandeur 
of the object, until their energies become enlisted, to 
concentrate them with power and might for its full ac- 
comphshment. Texan Christians are, in a very impor- 
tant manner, placed where they must labor. So near 
aUied to their own interests, is the moral condition of 
Mexico, that its elevation seems necessary to^hcirown. 
Their proximity renders it apparent, that the moral 
condition of the one will evidently affect the other. 
The baleful effects of Mexican influence must be coun- 
teracted and overcome, and Christians must buckle on 



56 TEXAS IN 1850. 

anew their armor in the prosecution of a work, the 
accomplishment of which would excite the joy of angels 
in heaven and the gratitude of saints on earth. To ele- 
vate the moral condition of a country, containing a pop- 
ulation of millions of souls under the influence of a reli- 
gion which in point of absurdity might compare with 
paganism, within the limits of our own continent, pre- 
sents an object sufficiently important to enlist an imme- 
diate and energetic action of Christians throughout the 
United States. While the heathen abroad are sharing 
in their benevolent and philanthropic efforts, let not the 
heathen at home be forgotten. 

Are there not those to whom the importance of the 
object addresses itself with sufficient force to induce 
them to volunteer their services for the cause of truth 
in Texas and Mexico ? Let each ask himself the ques- 
tion, what is my duty as an American Christian ? 

Mexico is now open for the dissemination of the Word 
of life. Its conquest to national power, inspired the 
martial spirit of American freemen, and shall not the 
sons of peace and righteousness follow up the victory 
with those weapons which are mighty through God to the 
pulling down of strong holds ? The work must be done. 
The honor of American Christianity demands it, and 
who will lead in advance ? 

Texas may be regarded as the outposts of the ene- 
my's camp, and every means should be used to secure 
such an important fortification. Here the instruments 
are to be prepared to operate upon Mexico. Mission- 
aries arc to be manufactured, wh'ch are to scatter the 



TEXAS IN 1850. 57 

pure light of truth over thd benighted regions of Mexico. 
From the Sabbath schools of Texas may there be trans- 
planted trees which shall yield a sweeter perfume upon 
the mountains of Mexico, than her rich groves of 
orange and pomegranate ! " How beautiful upon the 
mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, 
that pubhsheth peace : that bringeth good tidings of 
good, that publisheth salvation, that saith unto Zion, thy 
God reii2;neth ! '' 

Let Texas, then, be the grand lever, and ere the nine- 
teenth century closes, Mexico may be seen " sitting at 
the feet of Jesus," clothed in moral beauty, and " in 
her right mind, as it regards the great things pertain- 
ing to eternal hfe." 



CHAPTER VI. 



Newspapers of Texas — opinion in the older States. Literary merit of 
the periodicals. Their increase. Their influence. Importance of 
a correct literature to the moral character of a country. Respon- 
sibilities of Editors. Circulation of religious books. Need of book- 
sellers. An improvement requisite in school books. 



" A newspaper in Texas, does the intelligence of the 
state demand a newspaper ? " was a question proposed 
last year. This circumstance may appear incredible to 
one who is not aware of the ignorance which prevails 
abroad, in regard to the true condition of the State. 
People in the older States, to some extent, have doom- 
ed Texas, and prescribed limits which she must never 
pass, but while those persons ascribe ignorance, let 
them ascertain to what extent they are not enthralled 
in that which they would impute to others. 

Though Texas cannot boast of such prodigies of 
literature as some other countries of older standing, yet 
she can exhibit specimens which are highly respectable. 

We are, doubtless warranted in the assertion, that 
no country or nation, in so short a time, has exhibited 
more excellent specimens of literary merit. The nu- 
merous periodical papers issued within the last few 
years, have exerted an important share of influence in 
promoting knowledge, and, very evidently, afford a 
convincing proof of the growing intelUgence of the 
State. 



TEXAS IN 1850. 59 

At the time of annexation five or six newspapers 
constituted the reading matter in the way of periodicals 
then extant ; now thirty-two in all the varieties, are 
sustained almost exclusively by TexUn readers and 
patronage. 

A circulation of the newspapers of Texas would re- 
flect an honor upon the literary character of the State, 
and might serve, no doubt, to elucidate her true condi- 
tion more correctly than any other means. Hence a 
more extensive circulation abroad, should be aimed at, 
by those who desire to benefit the State in a civil and 
moral point of view. 

As an extensive agent of power in moulding the 
character of a country, and giving it a reputation 
abroad, is the instrumentality of the press. Important 
responsibilities rest upon those who write for the public ; 
and perhaps, nowhere should more precision be ob- 
served than in Texas, from the fact, that such is the 
intellectual appetite for reading, that the sentiments 
issued from the press are devoured with eagerness, 
regardless of consequences. " Let me write the ballads 
of a nation," said an ancient politician, " and I care not 
who writes its laws." 

A corrupt literature has every where been proven 
to exert an immoral tendency, as the countries in which 
this subject has not been duly considered, clearly ex- 
hibit. An important privilege, of moulding Texian 
principles into their proper channel, is presented to 
those who occupy the editorial department of moral en- 
terprise. 



60 TEXAS IN 1850. 

An immoral sentiment uttered in print, will not affect 
one individual only, but a whole community. The press 
may be made a vehicle of error, or a medium of intelli- 
gence and virtue. Hence the importance of those oc- 
cupying the public position of editors of newspapers being 
men of high moral sentiment, dignified and intelhgent. 
They should not lightly assume, nor thoughtlessly dis- 
charge duties of such important bearing. A weapon 
for weal, or for woe, is in their hand, and if successful- 
ly used, may do much in elevating a country to a high 
standard of intelligence and virtue. With many per- 
sons, the newspapers supply the chief reading mat- 
ter ', their quick succession, the variety of their con- 
tents, and the little labor which is requisite to run 
through them, makes it rather an amusement, than a 
task to read them. This fact gives such publications a 
decided advantage over any others, as many persons 
will read a newspaper who rarely ever look into a book, 
and hence this medium may be regarded as the most 
availaWe channel to mind and morals, and should be im- 
proved for exerting a healthful and saving influence. 

The press is the tongue — a fountain of Hfe, or a pois 
oned spring which sends forth deleterious streams ; and 
the agent which wields such a mighty power, should 
know how to use and apply it, so as to pour light abroad 
from the living fountains of his own intelHgence. 

The importance of a right kind of reading is felt in 
Texas, and measures are used, to some extent, to sup- 
plant the pernicious trash of " light literature," which 
is operating so powerfully elsewhere, to pervert and 



TEXAS IN 1850. 61 

corrupt public sentiment. By the proper efforts on the 
part of the friends of morality in circulating the cheap 
evangelical publications of the various benevolent 
societies, that flood of demoralizing reading which 
is deluging many portions of our country, might be 
driven back. The readino; taste in Texas is formino;, 
and susceptible of a favorable stamp ; if the literature 
which is circulated at the present crisis be sanctified in 
its character, its sentiment will become a principle of 
moral and intellectual dignity — an element of fire, 
purifying and subliming the mass in which it 
glows. 

A taste for reading is far less natural than acquired, 
and hence it becomes necessary to nourish it with suita- 
ble aliment. 

The circulating libraries of the American S. S. 
Union, and religious books, scattered over the country 
by colporteurs, are proving powerful elements in im- 
parting moral elevation in the community of Texas, and 
afford ample encouragement to extend such oper"!ltions, 
by the various benevolent societies. 

Booksellers might do extensive business in all the im- 
portant towns of Texas, and if of the right kind, would 
do much good in promoting a moral sentiment among 
the people. An improvement in the way of text-books 
for schools is evidently demanded. Among the many 
causes which should operate in Texas for increasing the 
well-being of society, that of enlarging the usefulness 
and operations of schools, by a judicious assortment of 
books, presents a claim upon the consideration of 



62 TEXAS IN 1850. 

the public generally, and especially of the friends of 
education. 

A great deficiency is felt by those who have the care 
of schools in Texas, and it is a matter of much impor- 
tance to the educational interests of the State, that an 
immediate improvement be made, by introducing a uni- 
form system of books that may serve as a standard, 
•which are elevated in moral sentiment as well as litera- 
ry merit. It appears that this subject has not been suffi- 
ciently appreciated from the number and variety of poor 
school books which are extant. The difficulty of obtain- 
ing suitable books is probably the cause of this defect, 
and therefore appears the importance and necessity of 
booksellers being encouraged, as harbingers of a more 
correct system of education, than has hitherto been 
enjoyed. 

" Among the duties of the guardians of public edu- 
cation, it is one thing to provide the ways and means 
in support of the cause, another to obtain competent 
teachers, and last to furnish them, as you would the 
mechanic or artist, if you expect the best result from 
their labors, with proper tools and materials — that is 
to say, with the best books. Money lavished in the 
purchase of inferior books is not only lost, but that time 
which is the most precious to the young for improve- 
ment, is gone, and cannot be redeemed." 

" Every good teacher is aware of the importance of 
placing the best school books, and none other, in the 
hands of his pupils. On the fitness of these assistants 
in the business of educating, depends much of the ease 



TEXAS IN 1850. 63 

and success of his labors. Though the good mstructer 
Tvill doubtless accomplish much in the use of even poor 
books, his success must be greater and more easily 
attained by the aid of good ones. 

The Eclectic Educational Series is believed to be, as 
a whole, better suited to the wants of intelligent edu- 
cators, in the present advancing state of primary edu- 
cation, than any similar series yet published, and any 
efforts to extend its use into our schools, is a real ser- 
vice to the cause of education itself." 



CHAPTER VII. 

Comparison of the moral interests of Texas with the erection of a 
building. Necessity of the correspondence of the parts. The 
minutest causes to be regarded. Population to be made up in part. 
Dangers of a heterogeneous class of citizens. Difficulties attend- 
ing the formation of society. Proper means for obviating those 
difficulties. Necessity of high moral principles. Importance of a 
concentration of purpose. A model for imitation. Extract, exhib- 
iting the example of the first settlers of New England. Similar 
decision and fixed purpose requisite. Indications of Providence in 
behalf of Texas, encouraging to future efibrts. United labors of 
Christians demanded. 

In the creation of a fabric, much care is requisite 
to proportion its parts in such a manner as to give sym- 
metry, beauty, and elegance to its appearance. A 
slight deviation might mar the whole appearance — the 
defect would seem so much of a contrast, as to ren- 
der the edifice an object of disgust, rather than admi- 
ration. 

In building up the interest of a new country, the 
greatest skill and pains are requisite to make all things 
correspond in the way of improvements. The minutest 
causes work for good or for evil, and the tendency of 
every measure should be properly weighed, before it be 
allowed to exert an influence. The causes of pubHc 
corruption and national depravity, at first, are slow and 
work unseen ; — they begin to work by insensible de- 
grees, and are always perceived least by that commu- 



TEXAS IN 1850.. 65 

nity on Avhich their operation is most fatal. If such 
causes are permitted to exist in Texas, however much 
the good sense and virtue of the people may retard 
their operation awhile, they will ultimately produce 
their deleterious effects. 

Timely precaution will save this interesting State 
from the sad influences of an indiscreet management of 
those affairs in which is suspended her future destiny. 
With such precaution, Texas may be seen rising in- 
to a mighty fabric of social, political and religious order, 
soaring by degrees to eminence and distinction, diffus- 
ing her benign influence abroad, and descending with 
increasing improvements down through future genera- 
tions. How is such a mighty work to be accomplished ? 
It is evidently not a work that can be performed in a 
day, nor can it be matured by one individual. It is to 
be the result of an extended and comprehensive system 
of arrangements, like a piece of machinery, with wheel 
joined to wheel, and each one necessary to secure the 
successful operation of the whole. 

A concentration of minds is necessary, minds formed 

for action — minds that know what human nature is and 

how it is to be operated upon — minds that can lay 

plans for the accomplishment of purposes, and that can 

devise means for their execution. " The children of 

this world " should not be permitted to be " wiser in 

their generation than the children of light." "With the 

immense advantages which Texas possesses, imagination 

finds no difficulty in viewing her in the course of a few 

years, with her fertile lands in a high state of cultiva- 
6* 



66 TEXAS IN 1850. 

tion, her rivers improved to ensure safe and successful 
navigation, railroads constructed to facilitate inland com- 
merce, and the country, towns and cities teeming with 
population. Can it be predicted with equal certainty, 
that a comparative improvement in intelligence and vir- 
tue will take place ? In this subject is concentrated 
the country's hope. Knowledge and goodness must 
fix their altars on every pinnacle of fame to perpetuate 
its existence. 

To make Texas what she should be, those quicksands, 
which have always operated to subvert the well being 
of society, must be shunned, and those principles culti- 
vated that have ever proven a foundation for prosperity, 
and a safeguard and defence against all the dangers and 
difficulties to which a country may be exposed. 

The population of Texas is, to an extent, yet to be 
made up, and of their character, who can decide ? A 
heterogeneous mass, from every source, of all ranks and 
conditions, are in a measure to form her future citizens. 

Though many worthy and meritorious characters are, 
and will be, found among so great an emigration as has 
been and will be to this country, yet it cannot reasona- 
bly be expected that all are valuable members of soci- 
ety which emigrate. In all extensive emigrations which 
have hitherto been in any part of the world, it has not 
unfrequently been the case that the poor, distressed, 
overwhelmed with calamities and misfortunes from vice 
and imprudence, have formed a considerable part. 

In influx of strangers and foreigners of every grade 
and class is dangerous to the well being of society, espe- 



TEXAS IN 1850. 67 

daily if the number bears any considerable proportion 
to the old inhabitants. Even if that proportion is small, 
the effects are injurious, but in the immense accession 
to population -which Texas has in prospect her danger 
is extreme. Society will have to be formed under diffi- 
cult circumstances ; if the emigration is vicious it will 
corrupt, and if it is virtuous it will have to blend and 
assimilate ; and how are those difficulties to be met and 
counteracted ? Nothing but a firm and virtuous prin- 
ciple diffused throughout society, sufficient to act as a 
restraining and transforming influence, will mould such 
discordant elements into their proper shape. Public 
sentiment must be so infused as to be able to withstand 
all opposing currents, and turn everything which comes 
within its influence into its proper channel. 

Let the atmosphere of those lovely prairies of Texas 
become instilled with the spirit of virtuous indepen- 
dence, so that whoever inhales its balmy fragrance may 
become the subject of its happy influence. Let firm 
and exalted principle be the light-house to guide the 
stranger to a home in Texas, and here let him buy, 
build and plant ; let him live, spread and flourish, pur- 
suing interest and happiness in every mode of life which 
enterprise can suggest or reason justify, under those 
institutions which heaven will bless and prosper. 

However dark and discouraging the moral aspect of 
affairs often appears in Texas, there are many high- 
minded souls, who, with an eye of faith, look over the 
lowering mountains of present appearances, to the time 
when those rough places will be made smooth, and 



68 TEXAS IN 1850. 

" righteousness and truth which only exalte th a nation " 
shall be known and felt. If Texas is to be built up in 
moral beauty, skill and wisdom must lay the plan, and 
every one who feels an interest in seeing the building 
completed in elegance, must put a hand to the w^ork. 

Firmness and decision are necessary for the perform- 
ance of every important undertaking. A concentration 
of purpose can achieve the noblest ends. 

A model for imitation of great and important plans, 
carried out for the good of posterity, is presented by 
the example of the Puritan fathers of New England. 

Here it may be observed, that the reader must not 
too hastily judge, that the author is attempting to eulo- 
gize her own country. We are wilhng he should set 
down liberally to the account of national attachment, 
but, it is our professed intention to be candid and 
impartial. 

An extract will be inserted which may seem to ex- 
hibit the achievement of important purposes, planned 
and matured under the most disadvantageous circum- 
stances. Though great and splendid actions are not 
the ordinary occurrences of life, but must, from their 
nature, be reserved for particular and eminent occasions, 
yet that system is essentially defective which leaves no 
room for their production. They are important, both 
from their immediate advantage and their remote influ- 
ence. They illustrate the age and nation in which they 
occurred. 

They raise the standard of human excellence, and by 
showing what man has done, exhibits what he may do. 



TEXAS IN 1850. 69 

Monuments of the greatness of the human soul, they pre- 
sent to the world the image of virtue in her sublimest 
forms, from which streams of light and glory issue to 
remote times and ages, while their commemoration by 
the pen of historians, should awaken in distant bosoms 
sparks of kindred excellence. 

" The colony of New England was unlike the colonies 
of other parts of the continent. It grew out of the re- 
ligious principles, others, out of the pecuniary. Its first 
object was a permanent home for religious liberty. Its 
purposes matured in a country of persecution, prayer 
and desire to worship God, until those Pilgrims became 
consecrated to the great idea, and ready to sacrifice 
home, lands, country, friends and life, if they might 
secure liberty of conscience to their posterity in the 
new world. 

" They left Europe fully in the belief, that God was 
guiding them to become the founders of a nation, in 
which this liberty to serve Him would be secured for- 
ever and they stepped on Plymouth Rock fully in the 
faith never to return. 

" Few decisions of so great import were ever made in 
this world. Never on this continent has there been 
another of such stupendous results and by the highest 
religious faith, — no 1 never one so eminently possess- 
ing the very highest courage, self denial and confidence 
in God, like the martyrs. They resolved to live or 
die, as the founders of an empire in which to worship 
God with liberty of conscience. If here was a compa- 
ny of pilgrims possessing the highest religious faith and 



70 TEXAS IN 1850. 

devotion, and the highest manifestation of both : so no 
other on this continent, none in modern or in ancient 
times, since the meeting of the Disciples, when ' en- 
dowed from on high with the Holy Ghost and with 
tounges of flame,' have sent forth results so valuable 
to mankind, as have come out of this decision to re- 
main firm on the rock in the wilderness. That was the 
embryo bud, from which there has grown out three 
branches, large and growing rapidly with command 
from God to fill the whole earth, and it must be done. 
The branches are, a free conscience Bible in worship, 
free schools in education, and free suffrage in govern- 
ment. The last, to succeed, must be associated -with 
the two first. But let the free Bible and free schools 
prevail and we need little anxiety what form govern- 
ment may have. The want of education to every child 
and the Bible read daily by every person of the nation, 
is the danger into which we are now passing. 

" To use the language of a distinguished orator, liber- 
ally modified, ' If we seek for great men in the ends for 
which they set forth, the difficulties with which they 
contended, the success which God gave them, the teem- 
ing harvest which has sprung from seed sown with their 
tears, we shall find them in the first church of the Pil- 
grims ; and our interest in them must be inexpressibly 
heightened by their relations to our own present and 
future, in which they have expanded, and through 
whose light they shine. Certainly, the planting of a 
colony in a new world, which may grow, and does grow 
to a great nation where there was none before, is in 



TEXAS IN 1850. 11 

itself in the judgment of the world, among the great 
things which God gives great souls power to do. To 
found a state upon a waste earth, wherein great num- 
bers of human beings may live together, and in success- 
ive generations socially and in peace, knit to one 
another by numerous ties, great and small, wherein 
they may enjoy, improve and heighten social life, may 
reclaim and decorate the earth, invent and polish the 
arts, plant, nurture, and beautify the virtues of the 
soul ! to do this, is great.' 

" Much greater is the planting of a great nation as 
these pilgrims did it, being a church of Christ, out of 
the true and great Christian motive, the will and glory 
of God, and the love of unborn generations, so that 
each son and daughter might sit under their own vine, 
with no church or state. King or bishop to make them 
afraid to the end of time. 

" Certainly, in planting the best elements in the world, 
upon the Rock of Plymouth, things in heaven and things 
on the earth were united : faith, with hard sufferings, 
love of God and posterity, with the giving up of goods 
and comforts, which, except in the planting of the 
primitive church, has never had a parallel. All these 
things uniting in the Forefathers have concentrated in 
them the great elements, and brought them near the 
summit of all greatness on earth. 

*' To adopt an illustration of their own, * Puritanism 
was planted in the region of storms, and there it grew. 
Swayed this way and that, by a whirlwind of blasts, all 
adverse, it scut down its roots below frost or drought 



72 TEXAS IN 1850. 

into the heart of the world, its trunk went up erect, 
gnarled and seamed, but nourished by the most luxuri- 
ant soil, like men in the temptations of earth, with 
faith in the Saviour, and he in them.' Thus the true 
Pilgrim greatness, which can alone make this country 
great, is Christian faith, self denial, the church beauti- 
fied by suffering and constancy for others, like, and in 
union with the Son of God." 

The traces of God's hand distinctly mark the history, 
condition and prosperity of our country and nation. 
From the character of the population, to whom the 
leading influence was given in the founding of our insti- 
tutions, and in establishing national usages, we cannot 
but infer that God's designs towards this nation were 
of an exalted character, and that they will develope 
themselves in the future with blessings innumerable in 
our land and world. The spirit of maintaining equal 
rights, free religion and public schools must be infused 
among a people, and the principle carried out in prac- 
tice secures every blessing upon which the exaltation of 
any country can depend. The puritan fathers were 
distinguished for a love of learning, their regard for the 
Sacred Scriptures and their indomitable zeal in main- 
taining religious liberty. No sooner had they cleared 
a spot of ground, than the school house and sanctuary 
arose, and most of their care, during the greatest extre- 
mities, had respect to the welfare of posterity. Those 
who have the first occupancy of the soil must inevita- 
bly maintain an ascendant influence of great power. 
The tenacity with which first organizations and princi- 



TEXAS IN 1850. 73 

pies maintain themselves, affords the greatest induce- 
ment to establish at the commencement, those of the 
right character. The qualities and principles of the 
first settlers will mould and shape the political, social 
and religious institutions. If the right principles are 
started upon bj the first inhabitants, then others, of 
different kinds of population, as thej come in will be 
stirred into the forming mass and become assimilated to 
the powerful and well organized elements into which 
the J mix. 

God's hand was most specifically manifested in the 
preservation of his church in its purity, in the first 
planting of the American colonies, and cannot his hand 
be recognized in sustaining religious institutions in 
Texas under all the various circumstances in which she 
has been placed ? Never has God dealt more favora- 
bly towards a people, and with reference to the indica- 
tions of his Providence, the friends and advocates of 
religion should move forward in the work of advancing 
its interests throughout the country. His hand was 
never more signally manifested than at the present time ; 
in the movements for the spread of the Gospel among 
the people ; the opening of new fields of effort and 
raising up men to cultivate them and bestowing a sav- 
ing blessing on the seed sown in tears. Every revolu- 
tion of the wheel of Providence manifests the kindest 
designs, and bids the people of God move on, and no 
one can recede without treason to interests more pre- 
cious than life. No one can withhold his influence, 
while every motive of love to Christ and benevolence 
7 



74 TEXAS IN 1850. 

to man, and every consideration that bears in the con- 
servation of precious institutions, bids him go forward. 
"We are not ' straightened in God,' but the united 
effort of the people is wanted. Nothing in the way of 
means does so effectually overcome obstacles as the 
influence of Christians acting together. This is the 
most important element of success. Proceeding on this 
great principle of harmonizing the discordant elements 
of society, and prevaiUng on Christians of different 
names to co-operate in all that is essential to the salva- 
tion of man, the ark of the Lord must surely move for- 
ward in Texas. One, and all, the people, the whole 
people must thus move by one impulse, and labor for 
one destiny, and make their State the light of nations, 
diffusing the mingled radiance of peace, liberty and 
religion. 



CHAPTER VIII. 

The Missionary of Texas. Encouragement under Privations. Pros- 
pects and Promises which he has to sustain him. Encouragement 
which the Gospel offers for an Increase of Missionaries. Appeals 
in behalf of Texas. Claims upon the North and East. Duty of 
Extending Aid in behalf of Moral Enterprise. 

" It is all right," said a missionary in Texas, " yes, 
it is all right," for a redeemed sinner, honored as an 
officer of the highest Court in the universe ^ith an em- 
bassy from the King of Kings to his revolted subjects, 
to endure any privations and trials, and make any per- 
sonal sacrifices which the service may require, with a 
cheerful spirit. " It is all right " to devote time, and 
heart, and intellect, and wear out the springs of life in 
self-denying toils to promote the Kingdom of such a 
Saviour. A glittering crown — a name enrolled among 
the sons of light — and everlasting honors Avhich out- 
weigh ten thousand times the best living sacrifices which 
the best Christian minister can offer in the service of 
Christ. 

A language truly characteristic of the spirit of the 
Gospel. How insignificant do worldly honors and plea- 
sures appear to one Avho has a just appreciation of the 
richer blessings of the Gospel of Christ. Infinitely 
happier is he who is following the footsteps of the bles- 
sed Saviour in sacrifice, privations and suffering, than 
the most exalted devotee of earthly pursuits and honors. 



76 TEXAS IN 1850. 

The missionary of Christ is on an errand of the most 
exalted character, and while he pursues his toilsome 
way, he enjoys a blessing, richer far than earth can 
yield. Though he sows in tears, yet shall he reap in 
joy, — " though he goes forth weeping, bearing pre- 
cious seed, he shall doubtless come again rejoicing, 
bringing his sheaves with him." Thus is he blessed 
who labors for the Lord ; though it be under a cloud, 
faith looks over the darkest prospect and assures him 
that his labor cannot be " in vain." The poor mission- 
ary wandering " up and down " in this unfriendly world, 
with scarcely a " place to lay his head," can exult in 
joys which the votaries of the world know not of. 

In the estimation of the world, the rich and the 
great are esteemed happy, but never was there a great- 
er mistake ; without grace in the soul, the greatest 
adornment earth can confer, will never yield one drop 
of real happiness. A momentary delusion ; scarcely 
a faint glimmering of the beloved object that allured to 
its pursuit ! Could the same spirit be elicited for hea- 
venly riches, that is manifested for those of earth, how 
much more becoming the character of beings destined 
to immortality ! "0, vain and inconstant world ! 0, 
fleeting and transitory life, when will the sons of men 
learn to think of thee as they ought ? " when will they 
learn the fading and unsatisfying nature of earthly good, 
and seek that happiness which can alone satisfy the 
boundless desires of the immortal soul ? When will 
they think less of time and more of eternity. 

The missionary of Christ has promises for " the life 



TEXAS IN 1850. 77 

that now is, and that which is to come." A halo of 
glory and light encircles his brow, from rich assurances 
which beam from the blessed volume of Divine truth. 
Streams of grace and peace flow through his soul, 
while he drinks at that fountain, of which, if a man 
drinks, he shall never thirst again. While the world- 
ling repairs to the unsatisfying fountain of earthly 
pleasures, he quenches his thirst from the view of life 
which proceeds out of the throne of God and the Lamb. 
'' He shall dwell on high, his place of defence shall be 
the munition of rocks ; bread shall be given him, and 
his waters shall be sure." His eyes shall see the King 
in his beauty, he shall behold the land that is very far 
oS*. " There the glorious Lord will be a place of broad 
rivers and streams, wherein shall be no galley with 
oars, neither will the gallant ship pass thereby." 

The Lord " will be a strength to the needy in dis- 
tress — a refuge from the storm, and a shadow from 
the heat in a weary land." 

A missionary of Christy what other title can com- 
pare ! kings, peers, lords and nobles are empty names 
to that conferred on him who is sent on an embassy of 
love and mercy to fallen man ! A missionary of Christ 
— what blessings and privileges are guaranteed to 
him ! " his bow shall abide in strength, and the arms of 
his hands shall be made strong by the hands of the 
mighty God of Jacob. Even by the Almighty Avho 
shall bless him Avith the blessings of the deep that licth 
under ; " they shall be upon the head of him who sacri- 
fices earthly pursuits for Christ's sake. 

♦7 



78 TEXAS IN 1850. 

In view of the immense privileges of being a mission- 
ary of the Cross, who would not covet it ? Why is not 
the way filled up with many rushing into a service 
which secures such present and future reward ! Were 
there more of those who profess to honor the Saviour 
and his cause, who will rightly appreciate the inestima- 
ble privilege of being missionaries to destitute portions 
of our world, " the desolate places would be glad for 
them, and the desert would rejoice and blossom as the 
rose." If this subject was duly taken into considera- 
tion, Texas would not be spreading forth her hands so 
long, in vain ; her ranks would be filled by those who 
would esteem it their greatest privilege to scatter the 
seed of truth over her wide destitutions. The appeals 
made in her behalf would meet an early response, and 
intelhgent and hallowed enterprise would be enlisted 
for extending the kingdom of Christ, until he reigns 
whose right it is to reign, over the length and breadth 
of this beautiful and interesting State. 

The Church is to be built up and enlarged, and in- 
strumentality is to be obtained, ere " righteousness 
goeth forth as brightness, and the salvation thereof, as 
a lamp that burneth." 

The Great Head of the Church is urging the claims 
of this part of his moral vineyard ; and most emphati- 
cally saying to Christians of the Northern and Eastern 
Churches, " Why stand ye here idle ? " " Go ye also 
into the vineyard, and whatsoever is right, I will give 
you." What though it be self denial and toil ; the 
Christian's happiness does not depend upon shunning 



TEXAS IN 1850. 79 

the Cross, but upon taking it up and bearing it. He 
who shuns an obvious call to deny himself for Christ'3 
sake, shuns the most exalted privilege permitted man on 
this side of heaven. The Saviour has nobly set an ex- 
ample of labor and self-denial, and " the servant is no 
greater than his lord." The purest, most unmingled 
happiness that exists on earth, is experienced by those 
who most nearly approach the pattern of Him, who, 
though " he was rich, became poor, that we, through 
his poverty, might become rich." 

** Oh, hear along the vaulted skies, 

This great command of Christ arise ; 
This mandate sent from heaven above, 

"Whose words are full of purest love ; — 
Go bear My Name ! go scatter light ! 

Dispel the mists of darkest night ! 
Go, turn the force of error's flood, 

And turn it with my precious blood, 
"While bolder, bolder press your cause, 

Till Satan all his force withdraws I " 

Rejoice ! rejoice ! for many a band 

Already hears in Gosjyel land; 
The morn of truth shines o'er the East, 

And sends its beams to farthest West ; 
The fragrant Sotcth — the moral wastes, 

Shall hear the neics of Jesus' birth ; 
While city, forest, sea, atid plain, 

Shall echo back the glorious strain, 
And louder, louder stoell the song, 

Till Jesus dwell on every tongue. 



PART SECOND. 



Limits of Texas, Existing Difficulties relative to the True Boundary. 
Divisions of Texas. Face of the Country. Climate. Health. 
Mineral Resources. Natural Advantages and Adaptation to the 
Wants of man. Eastern Texas. Counties and Shire Towns. Face 
of the Country. Timber. Streams of "Water. Facilities for 
Manufacturing Establishments. Emigration and Improvements. 
Fruits, and Vegetable Productions. Staple Commodities. Stock 
Raising. Internal Improvements. Natural Advantages. Desti- 
tution in the Moral I^epartmcnt of Improvement. The Educa- 
tional and Religious Advantages not adequate to the Demands of 
tlie Population. The Increase of Ministers and Teachers not 
commensurate with the Extensive Emigration. Difficulties at- 
tending Ministerial Labors. Sectional Feeling. False Systems of 
Christianity. Necessity of Ministers professing True Bible Wis- 
dom. Fluctuations in Public Sentiment and Moral Enterprises. 
The Most Important Element of Success. The Missionaries' Ad- 
vent into Texas. Common Entrance. Sabine River. Description 
of Sabine Town. Appearance of Texan Towns to the Stranger. 
Interesting on account of their Improving Condition. Description 
of San Augustine, Nacogdoches, Douglass, Crockett. Northern 
Portion of Eastern Texas. Entrance. Admitting Emigration 
rapidly. Description of Clarksville, Marshall, Henderson, Busk, 
Larissa, Palestine. Importance of a Female Institution of High 
Order in Texas. Trinity Valley. Production Lands. Naviga- 
tion of the Trinity. Mineral Resources of the Trinity Valley. 
Middle Texas, Counties, Shire Towns. Natural Advantages. Fer- 
tility of the Soil of the Busos Valley. Navigation of the River. 



82 TEXAS IN 1850. 



Improvements whicli might be made to the Commercial Interests 
of Middle Texas. Adaptation of the Soil to the Cultivation of 
Sugar Cane. Facilities for Manufacturing Establishments. In- 
crease of Population, and Growing Importance. Deficiency in 
the Means of Education. An Enlarged System of Education de- 
manded. An Increase of High Moral Principle, commensurate 
with the Increase of Population. The Standard of Piety of Church 
Members should become more Elevated. The Harmony and co- 
operation of the Different Branches of Christ's Church required. 
Houses for the "Worship of God. Observance of the Sabbath. 
Improvements made in Society during the last three years. 
Prospects of Continued Improvements. Destitution of Cincin- 
nati. Huntsville. Montgomery. Danville. Anderson, "Washing- 
ton. Independence. Rutersville. La Grange. Bastrop. Aus- 
tin. Galveston. Houston. Brazaria. San Felipe. Matagorda. 
Old Caney. Changes which have hitherto taken place in Relation 
to Towns. More permanency at the present. Sparsely settled 
portions of Country. Important Missionary Fields. Need of 
Ministers to collect scattered Church Members and organize 
Churches. Destitutions in the Old Presbyterian Church. Acces- 
sion of Ministers during the last year. Appeal to Churches in 
favored portions of Countries to aid the feeble Churches of Texas. 
Duty of portions of Churches to Colonize. Necessity of a better 
Church and more Action and energetic Piety among the Members. 
"Western Texas. Counties, Shire Towns. Extensive Territory 
yet to be occupied. Variety of Population, Relation of the In- 
dians. Hostile incursions of Indians during the last year. Im- 
mediate Measvires required for Suppressing Depredations. Ira- 
potance of "Western Texas. Navigation of the Rio Grande. Other 
Rivers susceptible of being rendered Navigable, Fertility of the 
Prairie Regions. Manufacturing Facilities, Mineral Resources. 
Natural Curiosities. Cross Timbers. Origin of the Old Missions. 
Necessity of Protestant Emigration. Prevalence of the Roman 
Catholic Religion. Immediate Efforts demanded for the Evange- 
lization of Mexicans on the Rio Grande. Dr. Baker's Report of 
the Condition and "Wants of that interesting portion of Country. 
The Readiness of the Mexicans to receive the Gospel, Eagerness 
for Bibles and Tracts, Description of the "Upper Rio Grande. 
Destitution of Ministers and Teachers. Fertility of the Country 
and Inducements for settlers. Recent Organization of Counties. 
Appeal for Laborers in behalf of the Rio Grande Valley. Descrip- 



TEXAS IN 1850. 83 

tion of San Antonio. Gonzales. Seguin. Of the Country situat- 
ed on the Gaudaloupe Iliver. Influence of the Temperance Cause. 
School Houses and Churches taking the place of Grog-Shops. 
Description of New Braunfels. Comal Town. Valley of the Co. 
mal Iliver. Castroville. Beauty of the Natural Scenery. Indianola 
Goliad. Towns on the Rio Grande. Edinborough. New St. 
Louis. Brownsville. Roma. Rio Grande. Laredo. El Paso. 
Necessity of re-enforcing the latter towns with strong Protestant 
Influences, on account of their prospective influence over Mexico. 
Retrospect of Texas. Her Early History. The Noble Senti- 
ments of Freedom evinced by the Early Settlers of Texas. The 
Achievement of their Independence. Foundation for the Prospe- 
rity which has succeeded. The Immense Improvements. Motives 
for Emigration. A Field for Interest and Usefulness. A Great 
"Work yet demanded. A Contest waged. Texians called upon, 
to gird on their Spiritual Armor. An Appeal for Christian Volun- 
teers to aid in this Holy "Warfare. 



What is Texas in Territory ? Were we to attempt 
to define the limits of Texas, we should come in collis- 
ion with the claims of the General Government, which 
admit of less territory than Texas understood former 
stipulations guaranteed to her. 

According to the boundary which Texas claims, the 
State extends from the Gulf of Mexico, three leagues 
from land, to the mouth of the Rio Grande, thence up 
the principle stream of said river to its source, thence 
due North to the 42d degree of latitude. 

This boundary was defined by an act of the first Tex- 
ian Congress, and continued to be regarded as such to 
the period of annexation, at which time, it was under- 
stood that the Government of the United States recog- 
nized it, and, by the resolutions of annexation, provided 
that " the territory properly included within, and be- 



84 TEXAS IN 1850. 

longing to the Republic of Texas might be erected into 
a new State — to be called the State of Texas." 

It is an important matter, at this era, for Texas to 
know what she really is, in territory, that it should 
embrace all that is her honest due. Encumbered with 
a large national debt, contracted in course of her revo- 
lution, she has to look to her public domain as her only 
resource for its payment, and the acquitance of her 
obligations to those who generously aided her struggle 
for independence. The acquiescence of Texas to give 
up the portion claimed will necessarily curtail and Hmit 
her ability to meet her responsibilities, consequently, 
she must violate her honor in a very important degree. 

The decision of this subject is a matter of serious 
consequence to Texas. It is hoped that the present 
Congress will decide the unadjusted boundary, and in 
that decision will render the justice which is necessarily 
expected from a source in which should be concentrated 
equity as well as power. 

According to the previous confederation, Texas 
covers sixteen degrees of latitude, and fourteen of longi- 
tude. She extends from 26 to 42 degrees of north 
latitude, and from 96 to 110 of west longitude. The 
south-east corner is in the mouth of the Rio Grande — 
a region of perpetual flowers ; her north-west corner is 
near the South Pass in the Rocky Mountains — a re- 
gion of perpetual snow. 

She has a gulf frontier of near a thousand miles, a 
frontier on the Rio Grande (the disputed portion) of 
two thousand miles, an undisputed frontier of a thou 



TEXAS IN 1850. 85 

sand miles on the Arkansas, about five hundred more 
on the Red River, nearly another five hundred on the 
Sabine frontier, and an inland frontier of three hundred 
miles between the Red River and the Arkansas. She 
has a circumference of about five thousand miles, and 
a superficial content of three hundred and fifty thou- 
sand square miles. 

Texas is usually considered under three divisions, 
Eastern, Middle, and Western. Eastern Texas em- 
braces that portion between the Sabine and Trinity ; 
Middle Texas, that between the Trinity and Colorado ; 
"Western^ Texas, that between the Colorado and Rio 
Grande rivers. 

By a recent division, the State contains seventy- 
seven Counti(?3. Several of the old counties have 
been divided into two or more, which division has in- 
creased, greatly, their number. Some of the counties 
are quite densely settled, and exhibit the improve- 
ments, incident to old settled States. For the most 
part, however, Texas has the usual indications of other 
new countries. 

The face of the country is level on the coast, but to- 
wards the interior it becomes undulating, and the north 
west is interspersed ^vith hills and mountains, which 
might compare in point of asperity and ruggedness to 
the most mountainous portion of the Union. Near the 
rivers and streams the land is covered with timber, em- 
bracing all the varieties found in other Southern States. 
The majestic appearance of the forest trees present 
striking objects for observation. The pine, palm, oak 



86 TEXAS IN 1850. 

and hickory grow to an astonishing size and height. 
The laurels, especially the magnolias, are peculiarly 
beautiful, rising with erect trunks to the height of 100 
feet, forming towards the head a perfect cone, and hav- 
ing their dark green foliage interspersed with large 
white flowers, frequently eight or nine inches in 
diameter. 

As we leave the streams the country opens into vast 
prairies or savannas, those beautiful plains which are 
common in some other parts of the United States. In 
the vernal season their beauty surpasses description — 
the luxuriance of the vegetation presents the appearance 
of seas of verdure. The grass, three or four feet high, 
and often overtopped by fragrant blossoms, is waved by 
the winds like the rolling billows of the ocean. With- 
out a tree in sight, except the thick forest which 
bounds them, as the beach limits the sea, they stretch 
far away beyond the power of vision. 

Those immense prairie regions are susceptible of a 
high state of cultivation, and their utility is equal to 
their beauty. 

The climate of Texas is one of alternate spring and 
summer, with the exception of a few weeks during the 
winter of excessive rains. During this season the prairie 
portions of the country are subject to violent winds, 
called " Northers," which exhibit a sudden transition 
from heat to the most intense cold. They are of short 
continuance ; their effect, however, is somewhat delete- 
rious to health, especially to those who are not accus- 
tomed to such piercing blasts. 



TEXAS IN 1850. 87 

Flowers bloom and vegetation grows during most of 
the winter. To a person reared amid the snowy regions 
of the North a Texian winter would appear a no- 
velty which could scarcely be realized. Rarely can 
there be found an individual from the North, who, after 
residing any length of time beneath the beams of a 
Southern sun, desires to return to the uncongenial 
rigors of a Northern climate. The South was formerly 
considered for Northern people, what India has been 
for Europeans, — "a vast grave-yard." Experiment 
has fully proven, however, that Northern constitutions 
are susceptible of becoming accUmated, by using pro- 
per precautions. It is not unfrequently the case, that 
individuals born and reared in view of the snowy sum- 
mits of the White Mountains of New Hampshire, are 
found in the extreme South, and as exempt from disease 
and sickness, as those who have never known any other 
clime, except that of the " Sunny South." 

The temperature of the Summers does not present a 
higher degree of heat than is experienced at the North, 
but their protracted length has the tendency, somewhat, 
to relax the constitution. The coolness of the nights, 
however, and the refreshing breezes from the gulf, 
serve very essentially to mitigate the inconveniences 
arising from the long warm summers. 

Epidemics are not common — the diseases which are 
generally prevalent, are of a mild character, and yield 
readily to medicine under early and judicious treatment. 
The watQr of some parts of Texas is injurious to health, 
which renders such locations objectionable. This diffi- 



SH TEXAS IN 1850. 

culty might be obviated, as in some parts of the 
State, by the use of cisterns, which will probably come 
into universal use in those places where the health of 
the country demands. 

The part of the State east of the Trinity river is 
bedded on freestone ; that west of it, is mostly upon lime- 
stone. The mineral resources of the country, are not 
developed to any great extent. As yet, there has been 
no regular geological survey, but it is very evident that 
such an examination would tend greatly to the interests 
of the State, by a development of many natural advan- 
tages, which at the present are unknown. 

In several places, specimens of pure chalk, iron and 
coal are found, which might be an object sufficiently 
important to engage attention for rendering subservient 
to the purposes for which nature designed them. 

An impartial observer of the merits and advantages 
which Texas possesses cannot but admire its general 
adaptation to the support and comfort of civilized man. 
In beauty and fertility it is the most perfect garden of 
nature, and if those advantages which the State posses- 
ses were brought into use and exercise, what a brilliant 
prospect would open through the darkness of the future ! 
With the moral energy of the free and active people, it 
can reasonably be hoped and expected that the arts, 
science, industry, virtue and social happiness will in- 
crease and spread where nature has conferred such dis- 
tinguished advantages. 

In order to delineate the State more definitely each 
division will be taken separately and described with 



TEXAS IN 1850. 



89 



as much accurateness as circumstances will permit. We 
-will commence with Eastern Texas, that part, as has 
been already stated, situated between the Sabine and 
Trinity rivers. This division contains thirty-five Coun- 
ties, of which those on the Sabine commencing on the 
South are the following. 

Counties. Shiretowns. 

Jeflferson, Beaumont, 

Newton, Burkeville, 

Sabine, Milam, 

Shelbyville, Shelby, 

Panola, Carthage, 

Harrison, Marshall, 

Cass, Jefferson, 

Bowie, N. E. Co. De-Kalb, 
On the Northern boundary, lying on Red river. 

Red River Co. Clarksville, 

Lamar, Paris, 

Fannin, Bonham, 

Grayson, Sherman, 
Cooke, Unsettled, 

On the Trinity river commencing on the South. 
Liberty, — partly on the E. and partly on the W. Liberty, 

Polk, do. do. Livingston, 

Houston, — entirely on the E. Crockett, 

Anderson, Palestine, 

Henderson, Buffalo, 

Kaufman, Kaufman, 

Dallas, — partly on the E. and partly on the W. Dallas, 

Denton, — entirely on the E. Alton, 
8* 



90 



TEXAS IN 1850. 




Intermediate commencing on 


the South. 


Tjler, 


Woodville, 


Jasper, 


Jasper, 


Angelina, 


Marion, 


San Augustine, 


San Augustine, 


Nacogdoches, 


Nacogdoches, 


Cherokee, 


Rusk, 


Rusk, 


Henderson, 


Smith, 


Tyler, 


Van Zandt, 


Jordan's Saline, 


Upsher, 


Gilmer, 


Titus, 


Mount Pleasant, 


Hopkins, 


Tarrant, 


Hunt, 


Greenville, 


Collin, 


McKinnej. 



This division contains a greater number of counties, 
and presents as a whole a higher state of improvement 
than that of Middle or Western Texas. 

The country is elevated and presents a beautifully 
undulating surface. It being less of a prairie region 
than other portions of the State, it is better supplied 
with timber. All the various kinds are abundant, — 
pine, hickory, walnut, blackjack and oak of several 
kinds. Streams of water occur at short intervals, some 
of which might afford excellent facilities for mills and 
manufacturing operations. There is, perhaps, no part 
of the United States which offers greater encourage- 
ment for machinists of the various kinds to prosecute 
the manufactures necessary for the interests of a coun- 
try, than is to be met with in Texas. 



TEXAS IN 1850. 91 

The evident need of such improvements in the East- 
ern, as well as other portions of the State, appeals 
loudly for attention to this department of enterprise. 
The cultivation of the soil has absorbed the attention of 
the citizens mostly, and hence this object has been neg- 
lected. Could some of the manufacturing enterprise 
and ingenuity of New England be extended into Texas, 
it would, greatly, conduce to the interests of the State, 
as well as afford a profitable speculation for those whose 
enterprise might lead them to undertake it. 

The tide of emigration is fast filling up this section of 
country, which is generally of an excellent class of 
people, and who seem disposed to settle permanently, 
and are turning their attention to the improvement of 
farms — to the erection of comfortable and handsome 
dwellings — planting out orchards — cultivating gardens, 
shrubbery, &c. ; and in fine to all the necessary objects 
connected with refinement and comfort. 

A great variety of fruit is found to succeed in East- 
ern Texas, comprising most of those found in- the torrid 
and temperate zones. The most prominent are figs, 
peaches, plums, cherries, grapes, apples, lemons and 
oranges. The productions are various and abundant. 
Cotton, Indian corn, tobacco, rice, wheat and sugar, 
are the staple commodities. 

Being a fine grazing country, it is well adapted to 
stock raising, and which is pursued to great advantage. 
Herds of cattle of the finest kind, several hundreds 
together, and thousands in some places, arc not an un- 
common sight. From the little care and expense which 



92 TEXAS IN 1850. 

is requisite for keeping stock, it might be inferred that 
it is capable of being rendered a very lucrative busi- 
ness. Very little attention is requisite during the 
winter, and indeed in most instances cattle are left to 
subsist on what nature provides. 

The vast prairie and river bottoms are covered with 
luxuriant grass, wild rye, &c. affording a natural pasture 
for innumerable herds of cattle, horses and sheep, both 
winter and summer. 

When certain contemplated internal improvements 
are completed. Eastern Texas will enjoy great commer- 
cial advantages. At present, those portions situated 
distant from navigation, labor under some disadvan- 
tages on account of difficult access to market. The 
expense attending the conveyance of produce to ship- 
ping points detracts greatly from the income, and this 
disadvantage in many instances serves as a serious 
objection for emigrants making permanent locations. 

A great remissness is observed in the Eastern, as 
well as other portions of the State, upon the subject of 
internal improvements. Attention has not been paid 
hitherto to the improvement of roads as might be 
expected from the means which the citizens possess. 
If good roads are one of the accompaniments of civil- 
ization, as is generally admitted, a traveller passing 
through Texas might, with much propriety, infer that 
a very high point was not, as yet, attained. Texas 
roads, all will concur, are not calculated to speak 
very favorably of the enterprise and public spirit of the 
citizens. 



TEXAS IN 1850. 93 

Such delinquencies are utterly inexcusable, as Texas 
abounds in all the elements of wealth and power to 
carry such an object into respectable execution. It is 
only necessary that public opinion receive a strong 
impulse towards a system of internal improvements, 
and the object might be secured : then the passing 
stranger as he traverses this beautiful country might not 
have his interest destroyed by the impracticability of 
the travelling, so that he turn with disgust — pronounc 
ing Texas, (as has been the case,) a country unfit for 
the abode of civilized man. The State should certainly 
possess sufficient pride of character to consider this 
subject of serious consequence, and if the legislature 
would give it some attention it would evidently facili- 
tate the interests of the State in reputation and conven- 
ience, in a very important degree. 

A country rich in natural beauties and privileges, 
without the adornment of art, presents a contrast 
which is more apparent and observable, than in those 
countries where nature has done but little. Hence 
Texas is laid under pecuhar obligations to carry her 
improvements to a high degree of perfection, and with 
her incomparable natural advantages, she might rank 
with the first States of the Union. Public spirit is the 
propelling agency, indispensable to the interests of a 
country, and in proportion as it is manifested and 
brought into exercise, in the same proportion does a 
country rise in influence, wealth and respectability. 

In point of natural resources. Eastern Texas is not 
second to any other portion, and time, no doubt, will 



94 TEXAS IN 1850. 

(ievelope a good degree of energy among the inhabit- 
ants. With due activity in moral improvements, it 
might become highly interesting. But here destitution 
begins, — presenting a subject of deep and vital impor- 
tance. Attention has not been extended to these 
objects, as might be reasonably expected from the intel- 
ligence of the people. An interest, to some degree, is 
manifested to secure the advantages of the preaching of 
the gospel, schools, &c., but not as yet adequate to the 
demands of the increasing population. The destitu- 
tion, perhaps, is not owing so much to the disposition of 
the people, as to the difficulty of obtaining the suitably 
qualified agents to administer in those departments of 
moral and intellectual improvement. 

People who have recently emigrated to Texas, with 
families, manifest a very reasonable desire to secure the 
necessary advantages for the improvement of their 
children, and a good degree of liberality is manifested 
on the part of the people generally, to afford sufficient 
encouragement for ministers and teachers of the first 
class to follow up the emigration with their influence 
and co-operation. 

One fact is observable, that the families of Texas 
emigrants consist, generally, of goodly numbers of chil- 
dren, which may be accounted for upon the supposition, 
that those parents who are thus blessed are desirous of 
securing for them the advantages of a new country in 
point of worldly interest, and many do this without due 
consideration of the privileges of education, &c., which 
they are sacrificing. In an instance of an emigration 



TEXAS IN 1850. 95 

into Eastern Texas which occurred last year, of four 
families consisting of fifty children, a query was sug- 
gested whether those parents would find moral and 
intellectual culture for their children, as readily as they 
could find lands for them. Nothing in the way of 
worldly advantages can compensate for the cultivation 
of the minds and morals of youth. This allusion is not 
intended to discourage the emigration of persons with 
numerous children, but is merely made to suggest the 
importance of bringing along the implements to culti- 
vate the mind as well as the soil. Where several fam- 
ilies are emigrating together, as is frequently the case, 
it would evidently be a wise calculation to bring a 
teacher with them. 

Two classes of emigrants are necessary for the 
improvement of a country, those to scatter seed upon 
the soil, and those to sow the more important seed of 
piety and intelligence. 

A great scarcity of preachers of the gospel is evi- 
dently felt in Eastern Texas. It is not uncommon that 
one minister has to supply three or four congregations 
at a distance, perhaps of fifty or sixty miles. Such 
ministerial labors are attended with great disadvan- 
tages, — from the labors of such extensive travelling, as 
well as from the little apparent efficacy of preaching 
monthly in a place. It is not surprising that ministers 
are soon worn out in Texas, and that so many find an 
early grave. Excessive labors in the performance of 
the duties, and the often barren fruits attending them, 
have a tendency to wear out the si)irit and body, and 



96 TEXAS IN 1850. 

many a premature death has been the result, and prob- 
ably will be, until this department of moral Zion 
becomes reinforced, so as to strengthen the hands of 
those already in the field. 

The sparseness of the population has been, hitherto, 
a difficulty in securing congregations of sufficient size to 
secure the stated preaching of the gospel. Those dif- 
ficulties are becoming obviated by a rapid increase of 
population — the towns and country are fast filling up 
with the class of people who require a regular and able 
ministry. 

Here, it may not be ungenerous to remark, that sec- 
tional feeling exists too much among the different 
denominations of Eastern Texas to facilitate the general 
religious interests, as is desirable. It is a melancholy 
fact that there is a party spirit manifested which is 
entirely unbecoming the spirit of the religion of Christ. 
The attempt to build up a religious denomination by 
pulling down another is an absurdity which will eventu- 
ally dovelope itself in an utter failure. The circum- 
stances of the country, new as it is, demand union and 
co-operation, to a certain extent, in advancing its reli- 
gious interests. 

The cause of Christ should be one of general impor- 
tance to all the friends of Zion ; and though that cause 
be propelled by different agents, it ought to be re- 
garded with equal interest. 

The introduction of false systems of diffasing truth 
under the auspices of Christianity, has had a deleteri- 
ous influence upon the cause of Religion in some parts 



TEXAS IN 18.50. 97 

of Eastern Texas. A false show of truth is more to be 
feared than error itself; unmasked, people can judge of 
its true character, but when it comes under the cloak 
of truth, fatal are the consequences to those who have 
not the discernment and prudence to look behind the 
curtain. 

The unadulterated principles of the Gospel will only 
secure a firm foundation, upon which to erect the tem- 
ple of truth. Hence the necessity that those who assist 
in forming the religious principles of a country, be men 
of correct sentiment, — cautious in assuming a position 
and firm in maintaining it. True Bible wisdom is requi- 
site for those who officiate in public capacities to meet 
and counteract the various prejudices and caprices, 
which are presented in society as newly formed as in 
Texas. The admonition of the Saviour applies with 
much propriety to such, " Be ye, therefore, wise as ser- 
pents, but harmless as doves." Nothing of permanen- 
cy is, as yet, acquired, that is found in old or settled 
communities — change, to a very great extent, is the 
order of the day. Enterprises, promising much good, 
may be in successful operation with every appearance 
of permanency, and, by some sudden and unaccountable 
freak of opinion, may be suspended entirely, or trans- 
ferred to some other point. Public sentiment is chang- 
ablc, and cannot be relied on with that degree of cer- 
tainty which is necessary to that permanency which is 
desirable. Hence the revolutions which are so con- 
stantly occurring. These difficulties, to be counteracted, 
require the transforming influence of skilful practition- 



98 TEXAS IN 1850. 

ers. Men of profound skill, superior acquirements, an 
extensive knowledge of human nature, and above all, 
of a scriptural piety, can only be successful in Texas. 

No field, perhaps, presents more urgent reasons for 
efficient laborers. Yet, the difficulty of the work should 
not deter any pioneer of moral reform from putting in 
an effort of good, however small. A little, in its proper 
place and time, answers an important end. We should 
not " despise the day of small means." God is often 
pleased to accomplish mighty purposes with compara- 
tively little means. " The race is not always to the 
swift, nor the battle to the strong." David, with a pebble, 
killed a giant, and faith in David's God will enable a 
comparatively feeble saint to become mighty in demolish- 
ing error, and in building up truth in its purity. " Not 
by thy strength, or by thy power, but by my spirit, 
saith the Lord of Hosts." He who depends least upon 
himself and most upon God, is the one who has the ele- 
ment of power for the accomplishment of great good. 

Whoever comes to Texas to do good might consider 
himself upon missionary ground at his first entrance. 
So many posts of usefulness would present themselves 
before him, that it might cause some hesitancy to de- 
cide which to occupy. Let his advent be East or 
West, flourishing towns present themselves, which are 
in want of ministers and teachers. 

A very common entrance into Eastern Texas, is from 
the Red River, by the way of Nacitoches and Fort 
Jessup, La., across the Sabine River to Sabine Town, 
which is the first town in Texas on that route. 



TEXAS IN 1859. 99 

This is a small place, af some importance, however, 
on account of its situation in regard to the river. The 
Sabine River is navigable for tolerably sized steam- 
boats, and by becoming cleared of some difficulties 
which now obstruct its navigation, it might be rendered 
highly important to the commercial interests of Eastern 
Texas. The town of Sabine has the appearance of 
being somewhat of a business place, and evidently 
possesses a good degree of respectability. 

The rehgious and educational interests are fluctuat- 
ing, nothing of permanency is enjoyed. Schools are 
only occasional, as well as preaching of the Gospel. 

A few miles west of Sabine, is the town of Milam, 
the shire town of Sabine County. Being a country seat, 
it might be inferred that a place of imposing consequence 
would present itself to the eye of the stranger. A per- 
son coming into Texas, direct from the Northern 
States might, perhaps, be surprised upon seeing many 
places called towns in Texas. He would, probably, as 
has been frequently the case, inquire, " where is the 
town?" and it would require some experience to be- 
come reconciled to the idea, that a post-office, store, and 
a few dwellings could, with propriety, be called a town. 

It might not be an absurd idea, to suggest that no 
place should acquire the appellation of " town," with- 
out its possessing church and school buildings, which 
might present inducements for an earlier attention to 
those appendages, which constitute the principal orna- 
ment of town, city, or country. 

It must be admitted that Texas towns are somewhat 



100 TEXAS IN 1850. 

peculiar, but the liberal minded individual must keep 
in view, that the places which are called towns, have 
all in prospect ; — had they arrived at their highest 
point of improvement, and were stationary, their ap- 
pearance would be exceedingly dubious ; but the appar 
rent evidence of their rapid advancement renders them 
objects of interest and admiration. Nothing can exceed 
the rapid growth and increase of the towns in Texas. 
One or two years, in many instances, has witnessed the 
foundation and increase of a town in all the various de- 
partments of business and enterprise. 

Twenty-five miles west of Milam, on the stage route 
from Sabine to Houston, is San Augustine, a town of 
considerable importance. Its settlement was com- 
menced in the early condition of Texas ; hence it has 
more of the maxims, principles and sentiment of Texas 
" Old style,'' than towns of more recent origin. Its 
history, like other early settled towns, presents a varie- 
gated character. Its frontier situation rendered it a 
theatre for scenes and acts which early times could only 
excuse. 

Many sanguinary deeds there committed, have been, 
by the recording angel, registered for future examina- 
tion. Though human laws and justice have been evaded 
in numerous instances, the voice of blood appeals to 
that tribunal, upon whose tablet is engraven the immu- 
table law, " Thou shalt not kill." 

If those deeds could all be charged to the account of 
former times, a less melancholy retrospect might be 
taken ; but within the last few years the infamous stain 



TEXAS IN 1850. 101 

of lawless murder has been permitted to deepen its im 
press upon that pleasant and interesting town. 

Here fell the worthy and ill-fated Russell, a victim to 
persecution and violence ; whose wrongs are deeply en- 
graven upon the sympathies of the most enlightened 
part of that community. Though no arm of law can 
reach the accessories of this horrid deed, Divine Jus- 
tice will search out the darkest corners, and bring to 
light those deep concerted plans, which robbed Texas 
of one of her brightest ornaments — one of her most 
promising and efficient agents of usefulness, and, sooner 
or later, meet such an outrage on humanity with its 
just desert and retribution. 

The shedding of human blood, produces, in any case, 
a stain which is difficult to efface, but there are circum- 
stances which deepen greatly, the color of that heaven- 
condemned act, and which impress must remain indel- 
ibly fixed. 

However dark such spots appear upon the moral face 
of San Augustine, the town has many valuable and 
worthy citizens, who look with abhorrence upon deeds 
of base immorality. At present its population numbers 
about five hundred inhabitants, comprising all the 
varieties of business and occupations, usually found in 
towns of that size. Its situation is pleasant, and a 
good degree of taste is manifested in its arrangement- 
The residences are ornamented with shade trees, shrub- 
bery and flowers, which give the place a very agreeable 
and imposing appearance. More attention has been 
paid to this department of improvement than is usually 
9» 



102 TEXAS IN 1850. 

seen in Texas. The citizens of the town are generally 
interested in promoting those important objects, in 
which are concentrated its best interests. 

A great degree of enthusiasm prevailed some few 
years since, on the subject of education, which led to the 
erection of elegant buildings for school purposes, and 
which might, as far as elegance and convenience are 
concerned, be made subservient to schools of the first 
order. By the appropriation of public lands, funds 
of several thousand dollars were raised by which a 
" University building" was erected sufficiently commo- 
dious for the several departments of one of the best 
conducted institutions. 

It went into successful operation under the super- 
intendence of Professor Montrose, a teacher of high 
respect, upon the union system, and promised great 
good to the town and vicinity. Had it continued upon 
the principle upon which it was commenced, the " Uni- 
versity" of San Augustine might have stood, in point 
of popularity and usefulness, by the side of any other 
institution in the South. But, unfortunately, the spirit 
of division arose, the development of which blasted 
and crushed the fairest prospects. An effort was made 
by Rev. Mr. Eussell to resuscitate the interests of the 
institution ; who, with a complete and thorough educa- 
tion, an extensive Chemical and Philosophical ap- 
paratus, and an adaptation to the art of teaching, might 
have been a very profitable and efficient agent in pro- 
moting the cause of education. Party spirit, however, 
had so gotten the start that his efforts were unavailing. 



i 



TEXAS IN 1850. 103 

and upon the altar of maintaining the truth, he fell a 
victim under mysterious circumstances, which, perhaps, 
only the final exhibition of human affairs, will fully and 
satisfactorily develop. 

Amidst the scene of contention and strife the Metho- 
dist denomination conceived the design of a College, 
and proceeded, forthwith, in carrying the object into 
execution. Agents, for the collection of funds, were 
despatched to various places, who succeeded in raising 
the necessary amount to erect a college building, to 
which was given the distinguished appellation, " West- 
leyan College." A board of Professors were obtained, 
and the institution went into operation, under very aus- 
picious circumstances, promising much future good in 
the promotion of the educational interests of San Au- 
gustine. After a short and transitory day of prosperi- 
ty, however, this luminary, which had just begun to 
cast its gladsome beams abroad, sunk beneath a dark 
and gloomy horizon, and nothing now remains but a 
dilapidated edifice to show that there ever existed an 
institution for the cultivation of the arts and sciences. 
Amid the darkness of the present, hope would fain in- 
dulge the idea, that over those desolations may yet 
arise that literary sun, and commence again its revolu- 
tions to bless the youthful mind and intellect of San 
Augustine. 

There is no better teacher than experience, and, 
oftentimes, mistakes serve to give the best lessons. It 
is evidently exerting such an influence in San Augus- 
tine. The people are fully convinced that party spirit 



104 TEXAS IN 1850. 

is not a principle which secures the prosperity of the 
moral and educational interests of any community. A 
unanimous feeling is manifesting itself by efforts on the 
part of the citizens to have those institutions revived. 
Only occasional schools have been had for three years 
past ; but the Trustees are exceedingly desirous of 
obtaining a regular board of teachers for both institu- 
tions. Perhaps no situation in the State offers better 
inducements for well qualified teachers, than San Au- 
gustine. 

The country is thickly settled by a wealthy class of 
citizens ; a satisfactory amount of patronage could be 
obtained, and a very reasonable compensation would 
be realized. It is to be hoped that this place may 
come under the consideration of those persons who 
are desirous of promoting the educational interests of 
Texas. 

Religion, in San Augustine, has shared, somewhat, 
the same fate as education. These two objects are so 
closely allied that it is impossible for one to suffer with- 
out affecting the other. Party spirit presumed to show 
its craven head in the sanctuary, but then, again, Divine 
justice stood prepared to vindicate its own cause, by 
displaying that the cause of Christ can only be pro- 
moted by the spirit of Christ, and that whoever attempts 
upon any other principle, is destined to " fall into the 
pit which he has made." 

The Methodist was formerly the most numerous and 
popular denomination in the place, but has been, lately, 



a'EXAS IN 1850. 105 

upon the declino. It has a church building which is 
the only one in the town at present. 

There are a few Episcopahans, who have a building 
under way, which will probably be completed the 
present year. 

There are quite a number of Presbyterians in the 
town and vicinity, of the Cumberland and old school 
Church, who have in contemplation a building for 
public worship. No regular preaching is enjoyed by 
either denomination ; and a great destitution of the 
stated ordinances of the Gospel is felt by those who 
appreciate its blessings. 

The rehgious denominations are all comparatively 
weak as yet, and need an able and efficient Ministry to 
fix them upon a firm foundation and build them up. 

Within the vicinity of San Augustine are some high- 
ly respectable Churches of the Methodists and Cumber- 
land Pres. which have lately erected buildings, and are 
proceeding harmoniously, in advancing the cause of 
truth. 

Many locations of usefulness are to be found in coun- 
try settlements, where they are so densely populated 
as to present opportunities for securing good congrega- 
tions. Sabbath and week day schools. 

An evil should be sought out and exposed which has 
existed as long as such a pernicious one should be 
permitted, that of incompetent teachers seeking such 
locations in which to exert their " worse than no influ- 
ence ; " and the people, from the want of better means, 



106 TEXAS IN 1850. 

have often been obliged to employ such pernicious im- 
postors. 

It is often remarked in country settlements, that 
expense had been bestowed, sufficient to have given 
children and youth good educations, who scarcely 
had attained the first elements of the common branches, 
with any degree of accuracy. . 

Here suggests one of the advantages which would 
occur from the public school system of education, in 
which the necessary qualifications of school teachers 
is so much a matter of consideration, that no individual 
is permitted to assume the important responsibility of 
instructing the youthful mind, without having passed a 
careful and judicious examination. 

The next town on the same route, thirty-five miles 
from San Augustine, is Nacogdoches, a town of consid- 
erable importance. This was of early origin, and was 
settled almost entirely by the Spanish, and not until 
within a few years has its appearance indicated it to be 
otherwise than a Spanish town. The population came 
by degrees intermixed with Americans, with which the 
customs have become so much assimilated, that the 
town, at present, retains but httle of its former charac- 
ter. Some indications, however, might present them- 
selves to the eye of the traveller. The only church 
edifice by its " sign " denotes that the protestant reli- 
gion has not assumed that position which it should. 
Catholicism formerly bore undisputed sway, but has 
yielded in its customs to the more consistent principles 
of Christianity. Some of the worthy and influential 



TEXAS IN 1850. 107 

citizens of the town still adhere to Catholic practices, 
though greatly modified from what thej formerly were. 

There are other religious denominations in the town, 
which, from neglect or inability, have no building for 
public worship, as yet. The Methodist denomination 
is the most numerous, and is in a very prosperous condi- 
tion. A very consistent spirit prevails among its mem- 
bers, who are,' in a good degree, promoting piety among 
themselves, and exerting a favorable influence abroad. 
They have a church building in contemplation ; the 
necessity of which is seriously felt, and it is hoped the 
plan will be carried into execution, with the promptness 
its importance demands. 

A lack of appreciation of the great advantage accru- 
ing from suitable places of public worship, is the prime 
cause of the many deficiencies which so frequently man- 
ifest themselves. Were the importance of this subject 
brought before the popular mind, clothed in its true 
light, measures would be immediately concerted for the 
erection of churches in many places where they are at 
present wanting. 

The Episcopal church is supplied by a missionary of 
that denomination, who divides his time between Nacog- 
doches and San Augustine. It consists of but few 
members at present, yet a very strenuous effort is being 
made for the erection of a house of worship the present 
year. 

There are Presbyterians in the place ; very few, how- 
ever, not sufficient to sustain a regular ministry. Occa- 



108 TEXAS IN 1850. 

sional preaching of the Cumberland and 0. S. Presby- 
terians is had in town and vicinity. 

Nacogdoches, hke San Augustine, has been a scene 
of contentions in regard to schools, not however to that 
extent. Those conflicts have retarded somewhat the 
educational interest of Nacogdoches, but have been in 
a measure counteracted. A very commodious and 
respectable building was erected some years ago, in 
which have been schools of considerable importance, 
and at present a school is in operation under the super- 
vision of competent teachers, and which is exerting a 
salutary influence upon the town and community. 

The society of Nacogdoches is refined and intelligent, 
and the stranger, probably, would not observe any dif- 
ference between it and the towns in the older States. 
The population is between five and six hundred. In 
this number of inhabitants is embraced the usual num- 
ber of professional men, merchants and mechanics. 

The town is situated upon an eminence, and presents 
an imposing and agreeable appearance. The Spanish 
style of building has nearly disappeared by the erection 
of new buildings. By the good taste already mani- 
fested, it may be inferred that it is destined to be a 
town which will possess attractions for general appear- 
ance, as well as for its moral and respectable character. 

Nacogdoches and San Augustine are situated upon 
what is called the " Red lands," a soil peculiar to a 
considerable portion of Eastern Texas, which, on ac- 
count of being strongly infused with irop, is quite red. 
The various appearances which are observed in this 



TEXAS IN 1850. 109 

vicinity might present a subject for interesting specula- 
tions. Varieties occur only at short intervals. Fre- 
quently, the red, black and white soil are found so con- 
tiguous, that their colors become blended into one. 

Douglass, situated fifteen miles west of Nacogdoches, 
is a town which claims a passing notice. It exhibits an 
appearance which is peculiar to many other towns in 
Texas, not however in the way of improvement, but 
rather, otherwise. 

The population consists of a very worthy class of citi- 
zens, though not possessed of that enterprise which makes 
very rapid strides towards eminence and distinction. 
The town can scarcely be said to be stationary ; its 
advancement, however, is very gradual ; and perhaps 
a future day will exhibit that its slow progress was a 
prelude to a permanent and increasing prosperity. 
The religious interests of the town are duly regarded, 
and the necessary means for their advancement are in 
operation. The Temperance and Sabbath School cause 
are exerting their happy influence over the morals of 
the people. 

The Cumberland Presbyterians constitute the princi- 
pal denomination of the place. The church is in a 
prosperous condition, and embraces many of the citi- 
zens of town and vicinity. 

A very good degree of attention is paid to educa- 
tion ; though there is no regularly endowed institution, 
yet schools are usually sustained, and have been, hith- 
erto, conducted by very efficient teachers. A very 
consistent order of things is observed, and the people of 

10 



110 TEXAS IN 1850. 

Douglass have less occasion for censure than many other 
towns. 

Crockett, on the same route, forty miles west of 
Douglass, constitutes the county site of Houston county. 
This is a town, also, which aspires not unduly for 
aggrandizement. By its appearance a stranger would 
not infer that it acted upon the principle of " going 
ahead," which characterized its name-sake in such an 
important degree. Crockett, however, manifests a very 
respectable appearance, and is proverbial for the 
morality of its citizens. The various institutions for 
promoting the best interests of the people are in opera- 
tion, and peace and order abound. A resident cler- 
gyman of the Cum. Pres. church administers the gos- 
pel ; and has a highly respectable church, and a very 
good building for pubhc worship. 

Crockett is the last town of Eastern Texas on this 
route before coming to the Trinity river, which is dis- 
tant some forty miles. As we have made but a limited 
examination of this division, it might not be uninterest- 
ing to take a glance of what is considered the Northern 
portion of Eastern Texas. The usual entrance into this 
part is by the way of Shreveport, La., and which, prob- 
ably, is admitting emigration as rapidly as any other, 
portion of the State. The fertile lands on the Red 
river, and the advantages of navigation have attracted 
settlements to such a degree, that some of the counties 
contain a dense and wealthy population. Appeals are 
frequently made from that source for an enlarged sys- 
tem of moral and intellectual improvements, those pos- 



TEXAS IN 1850. Ill 

sessed not being adequate to the demands of the increas- 
ing population. Ministers and teachers are essentially 
needed, and could not fail of meeting -sv'ith ample 
encouragement. 

Clarksville, the county site of Red river county, is 
somewhat of a noted town. It is situated in the midst 
of a wealthy and populous portion of country, which 
secures to it the advantages necessary to its rapid 
prosperity. 

Its religious and educational interests have been sub- 
jects of special attention, securing to the town a very 
reputable moral character. Those conflicts which are 
so peculiar to Texas and other newly settled countries, 
have occasionally interrupted the order of affairs ; yet, 
as a general thing, Clarkville has had less of sectional 
feeling and prejudice to contend with, than many other 
towns. Its population embraces the usual varieties of 
religious denominations, and which are mostly in a 
prosperous condition. 

Marshall, shire town of Harrison County, is situated 
forty miles from Shreveport, La., in the great thorough- 
fare of the vast emigration coming up Red river, moving 
westward. It is one of the most thriving towns of this 
portion of the State, having a population already of two 
thousand inhabitants ; and its future prospects are indi- 
cative of a large and populous town. It covers more 
than one square mile, and contains many handsome 
residences, and several elegant public edifices. Its 
eligible situation gives it a commanding appearance, 
and its buildings are exhibited to good advantage. 



112 TEXAS IN 1850. 

The country surrounding Marshall is gently undulat- 
ing, and very productive, and abounds with springs of 
excellent water. It is healthy, and quite densely 
populated. 

The religious and educational advantages of Marshall 
are superior to most other towns in Texas. The society 
is refined and intelligent, and all the privileges and ad- 
vantages are enjoyed there, which are found in the 
older States. Its location is peculiarly favorable to its 
prosperity, which, combined with the public spirit of the 
citizens, will no doubt render Marshall one of the most 
important towns of Texas. 

Henderson, in Rusk county, is also an interesting 
town. Its situation is pleasant, and the appearance of 
the town is rapidly improving. The vicinity abounds 
with beautiful lakes of transparent water, which, com- 
bined with other delightful scenery, renders Henderson 
a most desirable place of residence. The present popu- 
lation numbers about one thousand, and a very unani- 
mous sentiment prevails in advancing the best interests 
of community. 

The town is surrounded by a very fertile body of land, 
which is rapidly becoming occupied with enterprising 
settlers. By improvements which are in operation for 
the navigation of the Sabine river, the portion of coun- 
try surrounding Henderson will soon be put in posses- 
sion of all the advantages accruing from navigation. 

The recent location of a Seminary of learning, under 
the patronage of the Methodist Episcopal Church, is a 
favorable indication of the future literary character of 



TEXAS IN 1850. 113 

Henderson. An institution established at such a 
healthy and eligible point, patronized and supported by 
the Conference and the Church, ^vill be an important 
acquisition to the community, adding greatly to the 
prosperity of the town. It is to go into operation as 
soon as the necessary arrangements can be made. 

A pleasing contrast is often presented, when in our 
travels over Texas we meet with a village where peace, 
order and prosperity prevail. Though rivalry and com- 
petition in many instances are met with, yet, as a gen- 
eral thing, an unbiased observer cannot but be pleased 
with the improving appearance which the towns, from 
the mere resemblance to the populous city, so univer- 
sally present. It is this progressive order of things 
which inspires hope and confidence when present indica- 
tions are not so favorable. The infirmities and transi- 
tions incident to the farming stages of society in new 
countries, gradually disappear. The blasts of adversity 
in Texas are somewhat like " Northers." Often the 
portentous cloud and raging winds seem for awhile to 
threaten entire destruction, yet, after spending their 
violence a calm succeeds, and a more agreeable pros- 
pect than ever opens, — proving the truth of the adage, 
" the brightest sky always succeeds a storm." 

Sometimes in our observations, incongruities may ap- 
pear. While we see much to admire in Texas, there 
is, nevertheless, much to deplore. Were we to dwell 
entirely upon the bright side of the picture, no motives 
for improvement would present themselves. In no in- 
stance is there to be found such an elevated order of 

io« 



114 TEXAS IN 1850. 

things, as will not admit of strenuous and continued 
efforts for improvement and reform. " Advance " is 
the watch word for Texas, and will continue to be, un- 
til her moral wastes disappear, and the light of truth 
has so spread its purifying beams, that the moral beau- 
ties of this infant State shall compete with and outvie 
those which nature has so lavishly bestowed. 

Rusk, the shire town of Cherokee County, is an 
interesting town, and is fast improving. This county 
embraces a very fertile body of land, and is probably 
attracting emigrants as rapidly as any other country in 
the State. It is noted for its health, and though of in- 
land situation, its highly productive soil will necessarily 
advance it in wealth. 

Larissa, in the same county, twenty miles north of 
Rusk, is a pleasant, growing village. Although but two 
or three years since its settlement commenced, it now 
contains a population of about four hundred, and is fast 
increasing, rendering its future prosperity exceedingly 
flattering. Its situation for an inland town, is highly 
favorable, being at a central position between the two 
adjacent county towns. 

The citizens of Larissa are characterized by intelli- 
gence, morality, industry and enterprise. A better 
indication cannot be presented of the character of the 
people, than the erection of a respectable Church 
edifice before the town was one year old. The Gospel 
also, is sustained in a manner becoming its importance 
— the people support the preacher, and he devotes his 
time exclusively to the duties of his responsible calling. 



TEXAS IN 1850. 115 

This is as it should be. Not until the people of 
Texas are convinced that ministers cannot follow two 
trades successfully, will the Gospel be sustained, so 
that it can be dispensed with that ability which ensures 
its great end. 

That ministers have to resort to secular employments 
for a support, is in direct contradiction to the declara- 
tion of Scripture, and to the example of the Saviour. 
He most emphatically called his disciples to leave 
their employments and go and preach the Gospel, as- 
suring them that " The workman was worthy of his 
hire." 

It is a duty no less imperiously demanded at the 
present, and those to whom is committed the charge of 
souls, as they who must give an account, should be ex- 
empt from the cares and perplexities, incident to men 
of the world. 

Larissa is also the seat of a seminary of learning, 
under the control of the Cumberland Presbyterian 
Church. It is quite a popular institution, and bids fair 
to do much in promoting the cause of education in this 
part of the State. 

West of Larissa is Palestine, shire town of Anderson 
county, which lies adjacent to the Trinity river. This 
town presents, also, one of those rare specimens of rapid 
improvement, — growing up, as it were, in a day. Its 
situation is favorable for commerce, being but twelve 
miles from Magnolia, a commercial point on the Trinity 
river, and occupies the seat of an exceedingly rich and 
fertile country. A very good degree of public spirit is 



116 TEXAS IN 1850. 

manifested by the citizens, which, with the superior natu- 
ral advantages the town possesses, will render it in the 
course of a few years a very important town. 

Although -but two years old, all the various depart- 
ments of business and enterprise are in successful opera- 
tion. The population comprises some three or four 
hundred inhabitants, who exhibit a' more elevated 
standard of morality than is usually found in settle- 
ments so promiscuously formed. Quite a portion of the 
citizens of town and vicinity are connected with the 
Church, of which all the various branches have regular 
organizations. 

A great degree of interest is manifested in the cause 
of education, and a very laudable effort was made for 
securing the location of the Methodist institution, 
recently established at Henderson. The people of 
Palestine made a very liberal contribution, but the 
town of Henderson, possessing the advantage, was able 
to send up a more liberal proposition, and secured its 
location. 

The many advantages which Palestine possesses, 
render it a very suitable situation for a literary 
institution. 

One of the objects to be brought about for the benefit 
of Texas, is the planting of a Female Seminary of high 
order, at some favorable point of the State. As yet, 
there is none upon that elevated place, which secures 
to young ladies a complete and thorough course of 
education. It becomes highly necessary at this period 
of improvements, that vigorous efforts should be put 



I 



TEXAS IN 1850. 117 

forth, to rear such an institution at as earlj a day as is 
practicable. It might, perhaps, be proper to invite at- 
tention to Palestine, it being near the centre of the 
State, and easy of access from every part, and confi- 
dent as we are, that the citizens of that region would 
contribute liberally in aid of an object so vastly impor-' 
tant. 

The location of a regularly endowed institution in 
this beautiful and salubrious section of the State, is an 
object well worthy the attention of the friends of female 
education. The grand design should be, to bring the 
means of a thorough intellectual and moral education 
within the ability of all classes, the tendency of which 
would be, to elevate the standard of female education, 
which, from misapprehension of its importance, or from 
other causes, has not been made in Texas as prominent 
an object as its importance demands. Hitherto, it has 
been very much of a superficial character, not so much, 
perhaps, in consequence of the means used during the 
course of education, as from the limited time which is 
usually devoted to its acquirement. 

The idea that the intellectual powers of young ladies 
become developed, disciplined and educated, during the 
short period which is usually employed, is utterly ab- 
surd ; and any one acquainted with mind and its opera- 
tions would deem it entirely insufficient for securing the 
important acquisition of a complete education. 

A mere smattering of the sciences does not consti- 
tute an education, nor does crowding the mind with 
scientific facts ; but an expanding and training of the 



118 TEXAS IN 1850. 

intellectual faculties, bj which they become disciplined 
for proper investigation and exercise in the various 
duties and departments of life. This high attainment, 
however, consists not entirely in the cultivation of the 
mental faculties, but requires a harmonious culture of 
the benevolent affections and moral feelings. Contract- 
ed and insufficient is that system of education which 
does not cultivate the heart, bringing into due regula- 
tion the passions, emotions and desires, and a full recog- 
nizance of the supreme authority of conscience over the 
whole intellectual and moral system. 

That education be upon an important and elevated 
plan, it appeals for more efficient and systematic mea- 
sures than those hitherto employed in Texas. To 
obtain this object, successfully, a regular and syste- 
matic course should be pursued, and the want of an insti- 
tution whose system of arrangements embraces these 
important considerations, is sadly exhibited by the su- 
perficial character of the acquirements of females who 
have emerged into society under the guise of educated 
and accomplished ladies. 

That female education answer the design, three years 
added to the usual course alloted in Texas would not 
more than secure the object. An institution, mainly 
intended for instruction in the higher departments of 
education, would require a preparatory course for ad- 
mission, after which the transforming and moulding in- 
fluence of three years' discipline and instruction might 
justly entitle young ladies to the appellation of accom- 
plished scholars. The happy results of such an institu- 
tion, must manifest itself to every reflectuig mind. 



TEXAS IN 1850. 119 

It is certainly important that this suhject should receive 
as much attention in Texas as elsewhere ; and there is 
scarcely a State in the Union which has not its semi- 
naries of an elevated character ; and why should not 
Texas have similar ? The well-being of this new and 
interesting State requires that the important element 
of power, female influence, should receive the neces- 
sary preparation for the extensive sway it is destined 
to exert over society. This subject is one of vital im- 
portance to the interests of a country, which, if duly 
considered, would not be regarded second to any other. 

Let female education be duly appreciated, and its 
elevation be made an object of general interest and 
attention, an element of power is thrown into society 
which must exert a powerful influence in the preserva- 
tion of all those important objects which constitute the 
grace and charm of refined and happy life. 

The design and labor, requisite for carrying an insti- 
tution of the right stamp into operation, must devolve 
upon some friend of female education whose energy is 
sufficient to enable him to determine a location, obtain 
the necessary funds, arrange the buildings, and adopt 
the course of instruction to be pursued. 

Some of our northern friends, who would do a good 
work for Texas, might find an enterprise of this kind to 
amply compensate them for their labor. If some of 
the efficient female teachers in our Northern institutions 
could see it their duty to leave a less important field 
for a more promising one, they surely could not be dis- 
appointed in embarking upon the enterprise specified. 



120 TEXAS IN 1850. 

As reasons for suggesting such a co-operation, is the 
elevated^ principle upon which such objects are con- 
conducted at the north, and the necessity of extending 
such influences into less favored portions of country. 
With the advanced state of educating in the north and 
east, national philanthropy should lead to the planting 
of literary institutions in other portions of the Union, 
calculated to arouse and develope the youthful mind of 
communities, which might, otherwise, remain unknown 
and uncultivated. 

The object under present consideration might be suc- 
cessfully accomplished by some indomitable individual, 
whose benevolence and philanthropy might prompt to 
undertake it. Similar institutions have been founded 
under more unfavorable circumstances. A more de- 
sirable location and encouraging prospect could not be 
presented, as the country is destined before many years 
to become densely populated. 

The Trinity valley is rapidly attracting emigration ; 
Its particular merits, perhaps, cannot be better set 
forth, than by an extract which we shall take the lib- 
erty of inserting from one of the public journals of 
Texas. 

" The Trinity valley, watered as it is by the best 
navigable river in Texas, presents greater inducements 
to the emigrants, than, perhaps, any portion of our coun- 
try ; and it is only necessary for its many advantages 
to be known to secure a speedy settlement, and conse- 
quent prosperity, unequalled in the history of the set- 
tlement of any new country. 



TEXAS IN 1850. 121 

The river may be successfully navigated with but 
little difficulty, from six to nine months in the year, for 
three hundred miles by land, and five hundred by the 
course of the river ^ 

The lands on either side of the river are of the most 
fertile character. The bottom lands both on the river 
and many of its tributaries arc equal in every respect to 
the finest Red river or Mississippi bottom lands, whilst 
much of it possesses the advantage of being situated 
entirely above the overflow. They are well adapted 
from soil and climate to the cultivation of sugar cane 
and cotton, the great staples of the south, and when 
planted in corn abundantly repay the labor of cultivat- 
ing it. 

The uplands, extending many miles on either side of 
the Trinity river, although less productive than bottom 
lands, repay the husbandman a rich reward for the small 
amount of labor required in their cultivation, yielding on 
an average from twelve to fifteen hundred pounds of 
cotton per acre, whilst wheat, rye and other small grain 
are raised in the greatest abundance. These lands are 
cheap, easily procured, and readily brought into culti- 
vation. 

The climate is of the most pleasant and salubrious 

character ; the winters are mild, the summers balmy and 

pleasant, without extreme cold in the one, or oppressive 

heat in the other ; added to this, the natural beauty and 

picturesque appearance of the whole country make it 

a most desirable home. With the many advantages the 

valley of the Trinity possesses, every reflecting mind 

11 



122 TEXAS IN 1850. 

must see that this country must rapidly increase in 
prosperity and population. 

One of the great means observed to operate in Texas 
for attracting settlements is the advtintage of education. 
Let an institution of learning be properly and perma- 
nently established in the midst of a fertile and healthy 
country, there will be undisputably a concentration of 
population, sufficient to sustain it upon an extensive 
and comprehensive system. 

Those objects require only to be set in operation to 
ensure success. Public mind needs but to be awak- 
ened and the most important interests of Texas might 
be secured. 

The region of country adjacent to the confluence of 
East fork with the Trinity river, has, in a great meas- 
ure, been overlooked by the emigrant in his struggle 
for lands farther south. It is beginning to be regarded 
as desirable and important as any other portion of the 
State. Its superior advantages and facilities for trade 
and navigation, now rapidly developing, as well as the 
remarkable beauty and fertility of the country, will 
ensure a rapid settlement. On the high and low lands 
grow a great variety of the wild grape in the greatest 
profusion, and of the finest quality ; and which would 
yield wine of a superior quality ; not inferior to the 
best of Italy or south of France. 

The valleys of this portion are as rich and beautiful 
as it is possible to conceive, over which nature has 
strewn her variegated flowers of every hue, and finest 
texture ; and spread her emerald carpet of grass and 



TEXAS IN 18.50. 123 

mnsquite, affording rich and inexhaustible pasturage for 
innumerable herds of stock and wild game, where they 
luxuriate in the greatest numbers. 

Buffalo, the county site of Henderson county, is a 
town of some importance, and should the Trinity be 
navigated as high as this place, as it is thought it will be, 
it will become an important commercial point. A gov- 
ernment depot is established at Buffalo, and several 
mail routes concentrate there. 

For the last two year? emigrants from IMissouri and 
Illinois have been settling in the upper counties of 
the Trinity valley. Some parts are becoming densely 
settled, and offer important openings for usefulness. 

It is not at all improbable that the Trinity valley 
possesses many valuable resources which have not yet 
been developed. Within the vicinity of Magnolia and 
Navarra has been found, recently, iron ore, the quality 
of which has been determined by competent judges 
to be good and is worked with profit. The quantity of 
this mineral is reputed to be very extensive, and quite 
inexhaustible. 

White and red chalk are obtained from the same region i 
of country, which is described to be quite clear and free 
from impurities, and exists in great abundance in the 
vicinity of the iron mineral. Bituminous coal is, also, 
found on different parts of the Trinity, both above and 
below Magnolia, and has been in use some time for 
various purposes. 

We have taken a cursory view of Eastern Texas, by 
presenting the most important towns and objects con- 



124 



TEXAS IN 1850. 



nected therewith. It is due, however, to observe that 
some other towns are contained in this division, whose 
importance might have claimed a passing notice, but a 
limited acquaintance with the whole of Eastern Texas, 
obliges us to pass over in silence those parts we are 
not prepared to describe from personal knowledge. By 
reference to the table of counties it may be observed 
what portions have not been described. 

A great uniformity exists in Texas ; a description of 
some of the counties and towns, presents a very good 
specimen by which the others may be judged. 

The middle division of Texas contains twenty-three 
counties. Those situated on the Trinity river, adjoin- 
ing Polk and Liberty counties, (which lay partly on the 
east and partly on the west of this river,) commencing 
at the south, are the following : — 

Counties. Shiretowns. 

Walker, Huntsville. 

Leon, Leona. 

Limestone, Springfield. 

Navarro, Corsicana. 

Those situated on the Colorado river, commencing at 
the south : — 



Matagorda, 
Wharton, 


partly on 


theE 


. and partly on 


tlieW 


..Matagorda 
Wharton. 


Colorado, 


j> 




J? ?> 




Columbus. 


Fayette, 


>> 




) ?> 




La Grange. 


Bastrop, 
Travis, 


5> 


J 






Bastrop. 
Austin. 



TEXAS IN 18.50. 125 

Intcrmcdlcatc, commencing at the south : — 

Galveston, Galveston. 

Brazoria, Brazario. 

Harris, Houston. 

Fort Bend, Bichmond. 

Austin, Bcllville. 

Montgomery, Montgomery. 

Grimes, Anderson. 

Washington, Brenham. 

Brazos, Caldwell. 

Milam, Cameron. 

Williamson, Georgetown. 

Middle Texas contains the most important towns in 
the State, and on this account may be considered the 
most interesting. Having the chief commercial port 
secures a greater concentration of business in that por- 
tion than the others. The many navigable streams it 
possesses are becoming subservient to the purposes of 
navigation, by the enterprise and public spirit of the 
inhabitants, which, together with the fertile lands, gives 
every facility that is necessary for a country's advance- 
ment in wealth and importance. With the soil of its 
rich and fertile valleys under a high state of cultivation, 
combined with its other advantages, it is not unreason- 
able to predict that a future day, and that, perhaps, 
not far distant, will witness this portion of Texas to be 
in wealth and importance superior to any other part of 
the south. 

The fertility of that portion of country situated on the 
Brasos river is so well known, that a description is 

11* 



126 TEXAS IN 1850. 

scarcely necessary. It attracted settlement in the 
early condition of Texas, and has become proverbial for 
its unparalleled facihties for agricultural purposes, and 
the late improvements which have been made in navi- 
gating this stream has increased greatly its importance 
and given a new impulse to its settlement. The entire 
practicabihty of navigating the river has been success- 
fully tested, and this has induced settlers of large means 
to seek locations on its fertile valleys. Emigration has 
been immense during the last year, consisting of a 
highly valuable class of citizens, who not only possess 
the means of developing the resources of the soil, but 
whose moral worth is happily calculated to make a favor- 
able impression on society. A large share of the emi- 
gration is settling in the middle and upper counties of 
the Brasos valley. 

The country of upper Brasos north of the Pecos, has 
not been explored so as to be known extensively ; some 
parts, however, are ascertained to be intersected with 
beautiful valleys, well watered and fertile, and supposed 
to contain many valuable minerals, and, perhaps, gold. 
An expedition is preparing for the purpose of develop- 
ing its valuable resources. 

Great confidence is expressed that steam-boats will 
soon be able to ascend as far as the falls of Brasos. 

Nothing, perhaps, is facilitating the interests of 
Texas so much as improving the navigation of the riv- 
ers, and this is fully exemplified since attention has been 
paid to this subject. The difficulties which have, hith- 
erto, attended the transportation of the products, have 



TEXAS IN 1850. 127 

operated seriously against emigration, without due con- 
sideration of the means which might be put in opera- 
tion for obviating those disadvantages. Nature has 
not conferred more distinguished advantages on any 
country, and it remains only for the people to improve 
them. By observation of the southern part of the State, 
along the entire coast from the Sabine to the Rio 
Grande, it may be seen there is a natural communica- 
tion almost complete, and by connecting the several riv- 
ers, bayous, and bays, the whole extent from the east 
to the west might be opened for safe navigation. Much 
interest is expressed in that portion of the State for 
such an improvement, and it will probably go into exe- 
cution as soon as practicable. 

The soil of middle Texas is favorable to the produc- 
tion of every variety of grain. AVheat, rye, and oats 
grow well, amply rewarding the labor of the husband- 
man. The more profitable cultivation of cotton, 
however, absorbs the consideration of farmers mostly 
in the southern counties, and this section has to look to 
the upper counties for their supply of grain, where that 
grows in the greatest perfection. The cultivation of 
sugar cane is engaging the attention of many of the 
farmers, and the soil and climate are found admirably 
adapted to its production. From experiments already 
made, it is fully ascertained that the land is equal, if 
not superior to any other portion of the United States. 
In a few years it may be expected that the large tracts 
of land will be made into beautiful sugar plantations, 
which will greatly enhance their value, and, probably, 



128 TEXAS IN 1850. 

render tliem more valuable than any other lands in the 
south. 

The looks of the country is fast improving, and a 
traveller could not but be favorably impressed by the 
appearance which is every where manifested. Farms 
and plantations are becoming opened and improved, and 
buildings are being erected in much better style than 
formerly, both as it respects comfort and appearance. 

The propriety of going into manufacturing business 
is beginning seriously to be considered by the intelli- 
gent capitalists of this region of country. Some parts • 
possess great facilities for this purpose, by having an 
abundance of water power. 

In order that Texas should advance to an elevated 
degree of prosperity and wealth, she must, to some 
extent, become a manufacturing State, and it is now 
time that she was declaring her independence of 
other countries in res-ard to the manufacture of articles 

o 

of necessary use. Not until this branch of industry and 
enterprise is duly appreciated, will the citizens of Texas 
really become, in the legitimate sense of the word, " a 
free and independent people." Will not the wealthy and 
enterprising citizens commence those operations upon 
as extensive a scale as circumstances will justify ? An 
example is necessary to be set, and as this portion of 
the State possesses ample advantages, the claim appears 
to be upon it. 

Cotton, woollen and other manufactories might be suc- 
cessfully carried on. Many of the farmers of this section 
are turning their attention to the rearing of sheep, in 



TEXAS IN 1850. 129 

which they have succeeded admirably. The extensive 
prairies, Avith Avhich the country abounds, might be turned 
to very profitable account in serving as pasturage for 
immense flocks of sheep, and requiring so little atten- 
tion, it might, evidently, be rendered a very lucrative 
business. 

Nothing can be more manifest, than that middle 
Texas is rapidly improving in population and wealth, 
and presents a most ample field for industry and enter- 
prise. Yet in the midst of such general and increasing 
prosperity, it is to be regretted that there is not a cor- 
responding interest upon the great subjects of the mental 
and moral improvement of the population. A traveller, 
recently, examining this portion of the State, in refer- 
ence to these subjects, thus writes : " The fact is, (and 
the sooner it is known and felt the better for the per- 
manent welfare of the State) on the great subject of 
education in the most comprehensive sense of the word, 
we are not, as a people, doing what we should do. A 
very large majority of the rising generation of middle 
Texas, now growing up in our midst, are entirely desti- 
tute of school instruction ; and yet these are the per- 
sons, upon whom will soon devolve the duty of electing 
all our oflicers, from the judges of our highest courts 
down to the lo^Yest office. Ought .not the minds of per- 
sons who are to be clothed with so much power to bo 
enlightened ? And yet, in many of our counties, com- 
mon schools cannot be found. In many neighborhoods 
the Sabbath school is the only means of instruction 
afforded — and yet this is the great State of Texas, 



130 TEXAS IN 1850. 

concernino; the o-eneral intellii2;enee of whose citizens we 
are wont to boast so much, and this is the State which 
aspires to become the empire State of the South West. 
Verilj, it is time we were doing something more than 
making constitutional enactments and legislative appro- 
priations in behalf of education." 

Many parts of middle Texas, however, are manifest- 
ing very laudable exertions for the extension of educa- 
tion, but as a general thing, not adequate to the wants 
of the population. Several important institutions of 
learning, are located in the different towns, conducted 
in a manner calculated to exert a salutary influence 
•upon the rising generation. Much remains to be done, 
however, in order that this portion of Texas may extend 
the means of education to every youth within its borders. 
Present and prospective resources would justify an 
enlarged and comprehensive system of education, and 
duty most imperiously enjoins strenuous efforts for the 
advancement of knowledge in equal ratio with other 
departments of improvement. Those great highways 
of intellectual and moral culture, high and common 
schools, must be opened in town and country, in order 
to secure that honor and prosperity which should char- 
acterize an enlightened and christian people. 

The impression should bo cherished, as indeed it is 
by judicious people, that a strong conservative princi- 
ple must be put forth at this eventful crisis — and 
which, perhaps, a pure religious element can alone 
supply. 

Whether the future career of this interesting por- 



TEXAS IN 1850. 131 

tion of Texas is to ride forth prosperously, is jet to be 
proven, — difficulties and obstacles are yet to be over- 
come, and the only hope of safety and prosperity, is in 
an increase of high moral principle, commensurate with 
the increase of population. A great work is demanded, 
and to whom and what are we to look ? The church — 
its ministry, its Bible, its Sabbaths, its ordinances and 
all its holyi nfluences, is found the only proper supply 
of those wants. 

The ordinances of the gospel are better sustained in 
this portion of Texas than any other, yet there are 
great deficiencies, and those who " love the ways of 
Zion " can see abundant cause for an increased effort 
for building up the wastes that are presented. From 
the important position which the church occupies, it is 
evident that there is more than an ordinary amount of 
responsibility resting upon its influence ; yet it is a 
painful fact that church members in Texas act from 
a very low standard, furnishing by worldly conformity 
and practices a plain index of the tone of piety which 
exists. There is not that firm and exalted jirinciple 
which disdains a compliance with the lax customs of 
newly settled communities. 

An independence of worldly maxims must character- 
ize Christians any where, but if possible a double duty 
imposes itself in Texas. The religious interests require 
that they should assume a prominent position, and that 
position should be marked and defined by Bible prin- 
ciijles. 

It is observable that there is not that harmony of 



If32 TEXAS IN 1850. 

purpose in advancing the cause of piety that is desirable. 
Party lines should not be so distinctly drawn, from the 
fact, that each denomination acting entirely by itself, 
cannot exert so powerful an influence, as a combination 
of effort in the promotion of objects in which the general 
diffusion of religion is concerned. 

It is right to a certain extent, that ministers and 
members of churches should maintain what they believe ; 
it is highly characteristic of the independence of free- 
thinking people. It is a matter of doubt, however, 
whether sectarian lines, deeply drawn, can be taken as 
indicative of the deep rooted love of truth that should 
possess the heart. It is a question of vital interest, 
whether the firmaess with which many professed Chris- 
tians contend for the prominent features of doctrine, do 
not grow more out of the love of party than out of love 
of truth. Often it is the case that we see greater zeal 
manifested in sustaining denominational tenets than in 
saving souls. Sectarianism can never enlighten and 
purify the masses which are crowding this growing 
State. Prejudices must give way to a feeling more con- 
sistent with Christianity. When the amount of immoral- 
ity in the community is taken into consideration — the 
wide field of missionary labor — the deep necessity of 
sustaining the various institutions for the promotion of 
Bible religion, it is fully evident that there ought to 
exist between the different branches of Christ's church 
an identity of feeling and oneness of purpose. 

The house for the worship of God must be erected ere 
those beautiful and fertile valleys of middle Texas will 



TEXAS IN 1850. 133 

assume that appearance, which bespeaks that the " life 
to come" is taken into consideration, as well as the 
"• life that now is." It is truly desirable that the church 
edifice, with its sacred spire pointing the weary pilgrim 
to the heaven of eternal rest, should have a place in all 
the rising towns, and that the sweet toned music of the 
" church going bell," should constitute a portion of the 
sound which shall greet the ears upon each returning 
Sabbath. 

Perhaps in no other way can the interests of true reli- 
gion be promoted more effectually, than by making liberal 
appropriations for the erection of neat and attractive 
places of worship, which might not only bless the present 
generation, but continue to bless thousands with the 
influence of truth for years to come. 

Much depends upon taking this subject into consid- 
eration at as early a period of a country's settlement 
as circumstances will allow. 

The ordinances of God's house must be sustained as 
the only means of saving the Sabbath from being dese- 
crated. This is a subject of vital importance to the 
religious interests of this, as well as other portions 
of Texas, as -there are strong tendencies manifested 
to set aside the claims of this holy day. It is deeply 
to be deplored that those tendencies are encouraged 
to a very great extent by the example of professed 
christians, whose feelings and habits are in favor (if 
their actions are a criterion by which they may be 
judged) of making this holy rest a day of recreation 
and amusement. If Texas is to be saved from the 

12 



134 TEXAS IN 1850. 

evils and the judgments which follow in the train of 
Sabbath desecration, if christian people of this interest- 
ing State would secure to themselves and posterity the 
enlightening and purifying influences of the Christian 
religion, the Sabbath must be observed in accordance 
with the Divine command, " Remember the Sabbath 
day to keep it holy." 

There must be on the part of ministers, prompt, kind, 
united and persevering efforts to bring this all-important 
truth in contact with the popular mind for the preven- 
tion of this immoral practice. The influence and exam- 
ple of church members, by assuming a decided stand 
in favor of the proper observance of the Sabbath, would 
gradually wear away the pernicious custom. A gen- 
eral and timely attention to this subject should be 
regarded as one of the means of the moral renovation 
of society. In proportion as society becomes elevated, 
in the same proportion is the observance of the Sabbath 
considered indispensable to its well-?eing. 

Some parts of middle Texas have lost the appearance 
of new settlements, having, by moral improvements, 
assumed the marks of refined and social life. Those 
infirmities incident to the forming stages of society in 
new countries, gradually disappear under proper influ- 
ences. From the changes which have been wrought 
within three years past, the stranger could scarcely 
admit that such an elevated condition of society could 
comport with the character which Texas is so errone- 
ously supposed to possess abroad. For refinement, 
inteUigence and morality, quite a proportion of middle 



TEXAS IN 1850. 135 

Texas will bear a favorable comparison with any other 
part of the United States. 

The rapid improvement which is in progress in society 
throughout the entire State, gives encouragement for 
looking forward to the time when the moral sky of this 
interesting country shall be cleared of its dark clouds, 
and a clear unclouded day dawn to bless the present 
and future generations. 

For better illustrating the real condition of middle 
Texas, some of the most important towns will be de- 
scribed, and though some dark shades may blend in the 
representation, it must be kept in mind that those con- 
trasts are decreasing, and that ere long the moral aspect 
of the many growing towns of this, as well as of other 
portions of the State, will assume a condition which will 
bear inspection, according to rules and principles the 
most strict and precise. 

In our observations upon Middle Texas, we will as- 
sume our position at Cincinnati, a town situated upon 
the west bank of the Trinity river, on the stage route 
from the Sabine river to Houston. Cincinnati will 
scarcely compare, as yet, with its namesake, the 
" Queen ofthe West," but from its favorable situation 
in regard to commerce, is destined at some future day 
to become a town whose importance may bear a com- 
parison with any other. Its settlement was commenced 
at an early period, and from its peculiar local advanta- 
ges, it might have been expected to have arrived at a 
greater degree of popularity, than it has, as yet, acquired. 

Causes have operated for retarding its prosperity, 



136 TEXAS IN 1850, 

sufficiently to give a reasonable elucidation why the 
town of Cincinnati has not acquired that degree of im- 
portance, which its situation might, apparently, have 
secured. A prevalence of those vices so deleterious to 
society has tarnished greatly its reputation, preventing 
that increase of population necessary to secure its 
growth and prosperity. Hence the necessity of early 
attention to those objects in which is concentrated the 
moving power to influence and popularity. Inattention 
to the promotion of moral objects cannot be permitted 
without hazarding every consideration connected with 
the well-being and prosperity of any community. 

The dark day of Cincinnati's history, it is hoped, has 
passed ; and under those auspices calculated to ele- 
vate its moral character, a brighter day, no doubt, is 
destined to dawn, which shall reflect a more pleasing 
and agreeable reputation abroad. During the last year a 
building has been erected, designed both for school 
and Church purposes, in which a school has gone into 
operation, conducted in a manner calculated to exert a 
favorable influence upon society. A Church has been 
recently organized by the Cum. Presbyterians which 
embraces some of the most influential citizens. A Sab- 
bath school, also, has been lately reorganized by the 
Agent of the American S. S. Union which is securing 
the favor and co-operation of the people in a manner 
which promises its permanency. These causes com- 
bined, will, no doubt, have a tendency to renovate 
society and turn public feeling into its right channel. 

Nowhere do institutions for moral improvement so 
quickly manifest their fruits as in Texas. It seems 



TEXAS IN 1850. 137 

but necessary to set the wheel in motion to secure that 
co-operation requisite for its onward course. This fact 
evinces the spirit of the people for favoring those 
objects which have for their design moral and intellec- 
tual improvement. 

The Sabbath school cause in particular meets with 
universal approbation wherever it is introduced. Its 
influence is counteracting one of the most prominent 
evils, to which society is subject, — that of Sabbath 
breaking. Instead of the Lord's day being spent in 
idle amusements, children and youth are inclined by its 
influence to become interested in those subjects calcu- 
lated to improve the mind and heart. These effects are 
so evidently manifested in Texas that the most ample 
encouragement is presented for extending an institution 
so fraught with happy results. 

The influence which it is exerting upon the morals 
of Cincinnati affords indubitable evidence of its superior 
efficacy, and would silence all opposition which might 
be raised against this heaven-born institution. Next to 
the preaching of the gospel it is the most powerful agent 
in promoting morality and piety, and in preparing the 
way for every good and important object. 

The impulse which Cincinnati has lately received is 
increasing its population and business. A highly 
respectable class of citizens are coming in, who possess 
a good degree of enterprise in the way of improvements. 
The town is pleasantly situated, and, with the numerous 
advantages which it enjoys, cannot fail of becoming an 
important point in Texas. 

12* 



138 TEXAS IN 1850. 

Huntsville, twelve miles west of Cincinnati, on the 
same route, is a town of growing importance. Although 
of recent origin, it is rivalling in growth and prosperity 
other towns in the State of older standing, and has 
already taken rank among the most improving of the 
interior towns. 

The location of Huntsville was made soon after the 
battle of San Jacinto. Though a place of some business, 
its permanent prosperity commenced with its sele - 
tion as the seat of justice for Walker county. The 
rapid increase of Huntsville cannot wholly be imputed 
to its local situation, as its natural advantages are, in 
many respects, inferior to some other towns whose pro- 
gress has been much less tardy. By the unparalleled 
energy and public spirit of the inhabitants, its advanta- 
ges have been rendered subservient, in a very impor- 
tant degree, in building up a town of reputation and im- 
portance. A concentration of talent, enterprise and 
morality is proven by the history of Huntsville, and the 
rapid improvement under the circumstances speaks 
much in favor of its future prosperity. A combination 
of energy and purpose in building up its interest gives 
abundant reason for predicting its future course to be 
brilliant and consequential. 

In point of health, Huntsville is superior to many 
other towns, and on this account will attract emi- 
grants, who, in coming to Texas, make it a matter 
of prominent importance to secure a location which is 
reputed to possess this advantage. Its inland situa- 
tion subjects it to some disadvantages at the present, 



TEXAS IN 1850. 139 

but these will become obviated by those internal im- 
provements which are in contemplation, and which will 
probably go into operation as soon as the wealth of 
the country will justify. Minds, intent on the accom- 
plishment of stupendous plans of acquisition and ag- 
grandizement, will assuredly concert measures and 
resources. 

The prospective importance of Huntsville naturally 
suggests the inquiry, are the religious interests to keep 
pace with the progress of other departments of improve- 
ment ? Will the Christian, alone, remain inactive in 
the midst of such a toiling, panting generation ? Not 
without treason to interests which far surpass human ag- 
grandizement. Christian philanthropy must be brought 
into exercise to counteract an evil which often grows 
out of too intense aspirations for those objects which 
Holy writ has declared, are " to perish by the using." 
"Worldly mindedness is an evil to contend with gigantic 
in its strength, diffusing an influence so injurious to 
piety and hohness, that it requires nothing short of the 
engagement, the energies, and the earnestness of the 
whole church to cope with it. It is an enemy which 
percolates unobtrusively^, and its influence is most to be 
dreaded when least feared. 

The demands of Huntsville are for an enlightened, 
earnest and consistent Christianity. The refinement 
and intelligence of the people demand it, the intense 
aspirations for worldly distinction demand it, else the 
voice of God will be drowned " in the tumult of the sea 
of life." An important appeal is made upon the church 



140 TEXAS IN 1850. 

to exert her legitimate influence, as " a city set on a 
hill whoso light cannot be hid," and the demand is upon 
all as truly as upon any. " There is a field of conflict 
in which each soldier may and ought to be a hero." 
Are there not active, energetic and self denying Chris- 
tians, who will stand on the " watch tower " for guard- 
ing the religious interests of Huntsville, and use their 
direct and united influence in raisin^; them to as hi2:h 
a point of eminence, as worldly men are determined to 
raise their objects in worldly consequence ? The chil- 
dren of this world should not be permitted to manifest 
a greater degree of wisdom for the accomplishment of 
their ends, than do " the children of light." 

In the eagerness of the citizens of Huntsville to orna- 
ment the town with public buildings, churches have 
been, evidently, overlooked. Its prosperity, to the eye 
of an observer, would warrant, at least, one church 
edifice ; but even this, at the present, is wanting, and 
the deficiency manifests, that this object has not awak- 
ened that degree of enthusiasm, which has gathered 
around others of minor importance. The honor of the 
town demands that it should possess this specific mark 
of worship to Almighty God. 

Some lenity, however, is to be extended towards 
Huntsville, on account of the present smallness of the 
different religious denominations, as no single one has 
been sufficiently strong to erect a church by itself. 
The community of professed Christians embraces all 
the varieties, consequently each denomination is com- 
paratively few and feeble, as yet. 



TEXAS IN 1850. 141 

The Baptists are tlie most numerous, and have been 
formerly in a very prosperous condition. Under the 
charge of a highly respectable minister of that order, 
the Church moved harmoniously along, promoting piety 
among each other, and spreading a healthful influence 
abroad. But, unfortunately, a " root of bitterness " 
sprang up, its fair and promising prospects became 
bhghted, dissipating the cherished hope, that a germ of 
piety was concentrated within that church, from which 
might issue a tree, whose branches would spread their 
protecting influence over the moral interests of Hunts- 
ville. " Tell it not in Gath, publish it not in the 
streets of Askelon, lest the unrighteous triumph that 
the beauty of Israel is marred;" but, that such exam- 
ples prove a beacon to warn others of the rock upon 
which so many split, and scatter their dearest and most 
important interests, these things should not be passed 
over in silence. Those dreadful scourges, church dis- 
sensions, are more deleterious to the religious interests 
of community than gross immorality, and are more to 
be dreaded and avoided than the most fatal quick- 
sands. 

For the honor of the religion of Christ, christians 
should ever be willing to submit to personal sacrifices, 
rather than that the cause of the Saviour be " wounded 
in the house of his friends." It is hoped that the tide 
of dissension has arrived at its full ebb, and after a sea- 
son of humiliation and abasement, a flow of grace may 
waft this once interesting church to a higher position 
than that from which it has fallen. 



142 TEXAS IN 1850. 

Evil should never be done that good may come, but 
the Almighty is pleased to overrule misdeeds for the 
accomplishment of important purposes, and, may be, 
the darkness of the past is a prelude of future light. 
The Baptist church of Hunts ville is evidently " com- 
ing up out of the wilderness," and it is hoped, leaning 
upon Christ, purified and prepared to shed a light 
whose influence shall be felt for great good. An able 
and pious minister of that denomination is soon to locate 
there, by whose influence the church may be built up 
in its most holy faith and purity. 

The other denominations are increasing in their 
numbers, and are exerting a good influence. The 
Cumberland and Old School Presbyterians have each 
organized churches within the last two years ; the for- 
mer of which has a house of worship under contract for 
building, and is supplied with a regular ministry. The 
latter has lately secured the services of a minister of 
the 0. S. Church, who has recently come to the State. 

The educational interests of Huntsville have not 
been regarded as a secondary object. The early atten- 
tion of the citizens to the erection of suitable buildings 
for schools, and a judicious discrimination in the selec- 
tion of teachers, have advanced the youth of Huntsville 
to a higher point of literary acquirements than is usu- 
ally found in Texas. 

Its future prospects are highly promising, on account 
of the recent location of a college, under the auspices 
of the Presbyterian church. A charter was granted 
during the last session of the legislature, under the 



TEXAS IN 1850. 143 

appellation of " Austin College," and the buildings are 
to be erected as soon as practicable. This institution 
originated, mainly, through the influence of Rev. Dan- 
iel Baker, D. D. whose beneficent labors for the good 
of Texas, are, in a very important degree, felt and 
appreciated. Under the energetic influence of a de- 
nomination whose polity is happily adapted to southern 
mind, that salutary and desirable type will be given its 
character necessary for securing public confidence and 
co-operation. The citizens of Iluntsville and vicinity, 
fully persuaded of the necessity and feasibility of such 
an institution, have contributed ten thousand dollars to 
its aid. In order to carry out the design upon as ex- 
tensive a system as is desirable, aid beyond the limits 
of Texas will be requisite ; consequently public feeling 
abroad will be operated upon, for manifesting how great 
a degree- of sympathy is felt for the promotion of the 
intelligence, moral elevation and general good of Texas. 
It is hoped that a cordial co-operation may be extended 
in behalf of an object of such vast importance. 

It is a cause of general interest to Texas, and should 
elicit a general co-operation. The present population 
will not justify institutions to be purely and exclusively 
of a denominational character. The cause should be 
regarded as sacred, involving the general interests of 
community, both moral and intellectual, and ought not 
be marred by the least appearance of sectional feeling 
or prejudice. May this institution go into operation 
under those influences which shall reflect permanent 
good upon the youthful population of Texas — proving 



144 TEXAS IN 1850. 

a fountain from whicli shall issue " streams that shall 
make glad the city of God." 

There is perhaps no inland town in the State, com- 
bining in so great a degree the advantages of good 
society, health, religious and educational advantages, 
and business facilities, as Huntsville, and persons wish- 
ing to procure residences would not be disappointed in 
making a selection in town or vicinity. 

Some twenty-five miles west of Huntsville is situated 
the town of Montgomery, which constitutes the county 
seat of the county of the same name. With the improv- 
ing and fast " settling up " condition of the country 
around Montgomery, the town is rapidly improving, and 
bids fair to become, at no distant day, an inland town 
of considerable importance. 

Montgomery is situated in the first highlands, north- 
ward of the sea coast prairies, in a very fertile, health- 
ful and beautifully undulating region of the State, and 
surrounded by a dense population of industrious and 
intelligent farmers, who have done their part towards 
developing and adding to the resources of their country, 
and whose honest and useful labors have brought them 
affluence. 

Those institutions necessary to the moral health and 
■well being of society have been cared for duly. Sab- 
bath schools are regularly kept up and attended. There 
is an incorporated academy, and schools are sustained 
at other points in the vicinity. 

The temperance cause is in a highly flourishing pro- 
gress. In no part of the State has the temperance 



TEXAS IN 1850. 145 

Union been attended with greater benefits. Though 
the citizens of Montgomery were, perhaps, not remark- 
able for dissipation, there were, nevertheless, many to be 
reformed, and peace and good Avill now prevail. 

Montgomery was at one time the local seat of gov- 
ernment of a territory larger than the State of Dela- 
ware, extending from the San Antonia road (the old 
*' king's pass *' of the anti-Texan era) on the north, to 
Spring Creek on the south, and from the Brasos on the 
west, to the Trinity river on the east, some seventy 
miles on either course — and now containing the coun- 
ties of Grimes, Walker and Montgomery. 

A great amount of business was then transacted there, 
but the increasing population, wants and enterprise of 
other sections of the territory requiring all the benefits 
of independent " county sovereignty," the counties of 
"Walker and Grimes, — each containing over nine hun- 
dred square miles, were taken ofifof the original county. 
The division of the business of these counties to their 
proper centres, left the town of Montgomery for awhile 
in statu quo ; but, under the renewed energies of its 
citizens, and the impulse given to the section by the 
influence of emigration, it is now moving forward in that 
steady march of improvement which is visible every 
where over the country, and which, necessarily, belongs 
to the mild climate and valuable products. 

The San Jacinto, (that famed stream, upon whose 
banks, on the 21st day of April, 1836, the valor of an 
undisciplined body of Texan farmers, under the com- 
mand of Gen. Houston, won tor the American Union, 

13 



146 TEXAS IN 1850. 

a star of the first magnitude,) is navigable within a 
short distance of Montgomery, and will shortly carry 
off to market all the exports produced. 

Persons, who desire to remove k) a new country, or 
to a milder climate, will find this a pleasant section of 
country. The society is good, — the community wholly 
solvent — many wealthy — the lands fertile, and titles 
good, — and access to market easy and convenient in 
most seasons of the year. 

Twelve miles east of Montgomery, within the same 
county, is situated Danville — a village just springing 
into importance. It, also, is situated in, and near an 
immense body of fertile lands, most of which is finely 
timbered. Danville lies east of, and near the San Ja- 
cinto, which afibrds to the citizens of that section of 
country the same facilities of navigation as Montgom- 
ery. 

The population surrounding Danville are good citi- 
zens — most of them enjoying the comfort and affluence 
which rich land and proper industry invariably secure. 

Near Danville are planters of large agricultural force, 
some of whom are about to engage in the cultivation of 
sugar. 

Anderson, shire-town of Grimes county, is an improv- 
ing inland town. Its situation is elevated, pleasant, and 
healthful, and it 15 surrounded by an exceedingly fertile 
region of country. 

Alta Mira, which denotes in Spanish an elevated 
prospect, was the appellation which it sustained until 
it became the scat of justice of Grimes county. 



TEXAS IN 1850. 147 

The people are generally industrious and moral citi- 
zens, and have secured to the town a very respectable 
character. The religious community comprises the 
Presbyterians, Methodists, and Baptists ; the latter 
being probably the most numerous. An incorporated 
Institute, under the supervision of eiUcient teachers, has 
given the town and vicinity a good degree of eminence 
in point of education. Its pleasant and healthy situa- 
tion, combined with its other advantages, renders it a 
very interesting town, and one which will probably in- 
crease in population and importance. 

Washington, on the Brasos, is situated in the county 
of the same name, and has an advantageous location 
for a commercial town. Its situation, for purposes of 
trade, as well as the fertility of the adjacent country, 
gives it those advantages which insure its future pros- 
perity and importance. There is, perhaps, not a weal- 
thier or better settled portion of country in the State 
than that which surrounds Washinsrton. 

It was one of the early settled towns, and was design- 
ed by the provisional government as the scat of govern- 
ment of Texas. 

Its prosperity has been alternating, but has, at the 
present, acquired a more permanent condition. The 
recent improvements in the navigation of the river have 
given a new impulse to business, and the town is in a 
rapid state of improvement, and bids fair to become one 
of the most important towns in Texas. Besides the ad- 
vantages of navigation and fertile soil, this country 
possesses great facilities for manufacturing establish- 



148 TEXAS IN 1850. 

ments. The importance of making due improvement 
of those privileges is beginning to be appreciated ; and, 
when put into practical operation, will greatly conduce 
to the interests of the town and country. 

A great improvement has been made in the appear- 
ance of Washington during the last year by the erec- 
tion of several handsome buildings, among which is a 
large and commodious house for the worship of God. 

The liberality manifested in behalf of this Church 
edifice, speaks much in favor of the spirit of the citi- 
zens. This enterprise constitutes the brightest orna- 
ment of the town, adding greatly to its character in all 
its relations, morally, socially and religiously. 

Though reared by the Methodist Church, it is not 
designed to be exclusively local and sectional. 

As a house for the worship of God, it will be com- 
mon property, and under the peculiar economy of the 
Church which is to control it, its doors will be open to 
all, and its *' seats free." It is farther designed to 
enliven and perpetuate the life and character of Dr. 
Ruter, an eminent Christian, a worthy minister of the 
cross, whose life was sacrificed for the promulgation of 
the gospel in Texas ; he died and was buried at Wash- 
ington in the year 1837. 

A very laudable emulation has been manifested to 
contribute to the rearing of an enduring monument to 
his memory, a church of durable material which is to 
bear his name and perpetuate his many virtues. 

This enterprise is truly praise-worthy, and it would 
be well for others to take example of this noble senti- 



TEXAS IN 1850. 149 

ment of the people of Wasliington. Those individuals 
who hazarded their lives for sustaining the Gospel under 
the difficulties attending the early times of Texas, truly 
deserve a monument to preserve their memory ; and 
would, that there might be churches of the living God 
erected over the dust of all the faithful pioneers who 
have fallen in this field of Gospel conflict. 

The various branches of the church have regular 
organizations in Washington ; the Methodists are prob- 
ably the most numerous. The Baptists are making 
a strenuous effort for building a church, and will prob- 
ably succeed during the present year. The Old School 
Presbyterian church has recently secured the services 
of a minister of that denomination, who came to Texas 
during last year, having been -sent by the Missionary 
Board. 

Good schools have been in operation some years in 
Washington, and the present indications for education 
are very promising. 

Some twelve miles from Washington, in the same 
county, is the town of Independence, whose cliief celeb- 
rity consists in being the location of the " Baylor Uni- 
versity," a seminary of learning under the control of 
the Baptist Church, This institution was founded in 
1845, principally through the influence of the individ- 
ual whose name it bears. The prosperity with wliich 
it has been attended affords an evident manifestation of 
Divine favor in its behalf. The circumstances under 
which it commenced were not of an auspicious charac- 
ter. In a building the cost of which did not exceed 

13* 



150 TEXAS IN 1850. 

$200, it went into operation ; and such has been the 
success which has attended it, a more extensive system 
of arrangements has been found necessary, and build- 
ings at the expense of $50,000, are in the course of 
being erected, part of which are already completed. 
A regular endowed College is contemplated, and Pro- 
fessorships are to be endowed at the next convention of 
the Baptist Church of Texas. There is an Educational 
Society, and a Theological department connected with 
the institution, and several students in the course of 
preparation for the ministry. 

We congratulate this enterprise, and hail it as the 
harbinger of similar institutions coming up in aid of 
supplying the State with an efficient ministry of home 
production. All denominations must do something 
towards educating laborers for their own State. It 
will not do to rely mainly upon the north for aid. With 
all the assistance the north and east can render in the 
way of furnishing ministers and teachers, there is an 
ample field, unoccupied, to employ all that can be edu- 
cated at home. Texas has to perform an important 
part in furnishing evangelists for Mexico, and other 
unevangelized countries. Hence the importance of 
building up literary and theological institutions through- 
out the State. 

The public institutions of Texas involve important 
considerations, and immeasurable is the responsibility 
resting upon those who manage them. The church and 
country are in a peculiar manner interested in their 
character and influence. 



TEXAS IN 1850. 151 

May the " Baylor University '' prove a copious foun- 
tain of living water, sending out its streams in every 
direction to fertilize the land, and extend its influence 
into every department of life. 

West of Independence, in Fayette county, is the small 
but pleasant town of Rutersville, named for the lamented 
Dr. Ruter. This town also is the seat of a flourishing 
College under the patronage of the Methodist denomi- 
nation. 

This institution was chartered and went into success- 
ful operation in 1840, and has maintained an uninter- 
rupted career of usefulness to the present period. It 
has imparted the benefits of education to more than 
eight hundred of the youth of Texas. 

With its pleasant and healthful location^ its able 
board of instruction and numerous friends, it is destined 
to exert an important degree of influence in promoting 
the cause of education. 

West of Rutersville, on the Colorado river, is La 
Grange, situated in the midst of a beautiful and fertile 
region of country. This town is proverbial for its 
unparalleled beauty, on account of its local situation, 
and the taste and neatness of its arrangement. 

Its eligible situation gives it a commanding pros- 
pect. The surrounding country opens up to view, 
clothed in beauty unsurpassed. Three or four miles 
from town is a bluff" of pure chalk, whose cliff's present 
their snowy whiteness to the view of the surrounding 
fegion, with an appearance which bespeaks loudly of 
the natural products of the country, and the valuable 



152 TEXAS IN 1850. 

resources which are waiting to be developed and ren- 
dered subservient to the purposes for which nature 
designed them. 

The vicinity of La Grange is hallowed by the inter- 
ment of several American soldiers, who were massacred 
by the Mexicans during an invasion in 1842. A mon- 
ument is about to be erected to their memory. La 
Grange is situated in a healthy region of country, and 
supported by a dense population on all sides. The pop- 
ulation, which numbers some six or eight hundred, is 
composed of a wealthy and intelligent class of citizens, 
whose enterprise and public spirit are advancing the 
town rapidly in importance. 

A flourishing school, under the auspices of the Cum- 
berland Presbyterian Church, has been in operation 
during the last year with good success. Under the su- 
pervision of Mr. Montrose, a teacher who has done much 
for the cause of education in Texas, this institution 
will continue, no doubt, to enjoy a favorable comparison 
with the most important institutions of the State. 

Good church buildings, and the regular organizations 
of the different branches of the evangelical church, are 
found in La Grange. The Cumberland Presbyterians 
are the most numerous. 

The fertility of the lands in the vicinity of La Grange, 
combined with other advantages, offers great induce- 
ments to enterprising settlers who are desirous of seek- 
ing permanent locations. 

North of La Grange, on the left bank of the Colorado,, 
lies the town of Bastrop. It is situated on a bend of 



TEXAS IN 1860. 153 

the river, sloping beautifully down to the water, with 
ranges of timber — first oak, then pine, then cedar, ris- 
ing in regular succession behind it. The region of 
country around Bastrop is exceedingly fertile, and the 
pine timber is rendered an important source of wealth. 
It is manufactured at Bastrop by means of a steam saw- 
mill, by which the surrounding country is supplied with 
material for buildings. 

Such is the scarcity and demand that the country 
for some hundreds of miles depends upon being sup- 
plied at Bastrop at the exorbitant price of $60 pr. M. 

This fact is mentioned to show the inducement of 
enlarging this department of manufacturing business, 
and the openings for the enterprise of northern capital- 
ists who are operating on a much more limited scale 
than that which Texas might afibrd them. Yankee 
ingenuity and enterprise would not come amiss in 
advancing the manufacturing interests of Texas. 

Austin, the capital of the State, is pleasantly situated 
on the Colorado river, two hundred miles from its 
mouth, in the vicinity of the mountains, and on this ac- 
count frequently receives the appellation of" The city of 
the Mountains." The elevations of land near Austin 
will scarcely compare in height with Mount Washing- 
ton or the Alleganies, yet the contrast which they pre- 
sent with the extensive prairies which are spread be- 
neath them, tends greatly to diversify the scenery and 
render it peculiarly charming. 

A summit of one of the mountains, some SJ miles 
from Austin, presents a prospect unparalleled for beauty 



154 TEXAS IN 1850. 

and sublimity. The elevation is too hundred and fifty 
feet above the river, which meanders at its foot with 
majestic beauty, and, on account of falls which extend 
some few miles, flows with an increased velocity. 

On the west of the mountain lies a grove of cedar, 
interspotted with other kinds of timber, the appearance 
of which from the summit of the mountain is peculiarly 
beautiful. 

On the east lies a prairie, extending far away beyond 
the power of vision. An individual who has never be- 
held one of those " Elysian fields " can form but a faint 
conception of the sublime emotions produced by their 
prospect from an elevated summit. The exceeding 
scarceness of mountainous scenery in Texas greatly en- 
hances the enjoyment of the scene. On the south lies 
the city of Austin, the appearance of which from the 
top of the mountain is truly romantic and were we in- 
clined to employ our pen in the unearthly descriptions 
of romance, a more favorable situation could not be 
desired than the summit of this mountain. Though 
Austin has no claims upon artificial beauty, its natural 
scenery compensates very materially. The vicinity of 
the city affords delightful locations for residences, which 
might combine beauty and interest. 

Although Austin is not the central position of the 
population of the State, it still retains the preference of 
the people for being the seat of government. Since 
the commencement of the present year an election has 
taken place for the seat of government for the next 
twenty years, and Austin has received the vote of the 
people, sufficient to constitute it as such. 



TEXAS IN 18.50. 155 

The population of permanent citizens in Austin does 
not exceed eight hundred ; accessions and improvements 
have not been considerable of late, but its recent re- 
assignment as seat of government ^'ill give it a new im- 
pulse, and probably render it a city of pre-eminent 
importance. 

The Colorado has been navigated as far as Austin, 
but on account of the present unimproved condition of 
the river, steam-boating cannot be prosecuted success- 
fully. The commercial resources of this portion of the 
State Avill be incomplete, until proper measures are 
brought into operation for removing impediments which 
now obstruct^ the navigation of the Colorado, as 
well as other rivers in Texas which are susceptible of 
being made subservient to steam-boat navigation, and 
to facilitate communication far into the interior of the 
country. The Colorado is'five hundred miles long, and 
might be rendered available for transportation to a 
considerable extent, during a good part of the year. 

Austin is not remarkable for its religious character, 
nor for its superabundance of refined society. The 
population has been hitherto fluctuating and composed 
of a variety of grades. 

Galveston, the chief commercial emporium of Texas, 
is situated on a bay of the same name. Galveston Bay 
extends about forty miles inland, and must, necessarily, 
be the medium of foreign commerce, as there is no 
other access by sea-board which is so favorable. In- 
deed, Galveston, as a harbor, is said to be much superior 
to any other on the Gulf between Pensacola and Vera 



156 TEXAS IN 1850. 

Cruz. The city of Galveston has acquired a good de- 
gree of importance, though it is not possessed of all the 
advantages necessary to its advancement. In access to 
the interior of the country it is deficient, as it is insular, 
and has no direct inland communication except by 
■water ; in consequence of which the inland trade is 
intercepted at other places, which is essential to the 
prosperity of Galveston. 

Notwithstanding these embarrassments, quite an ex- 
tensive business is carried on, and a large amount of 
shipping done through its wharves. The present diffi- 
culties might become obviated by improvements which 
may and probably will be made. By means of a canal 
to the Brasos a communication might be opened with all 
the country watered by that river as high as steam- 
boats ascend, which would greatly facilitate its trade 
from the interior. Communications might be opened 
with other points of equal importance, by which means 
Galveston might be rendered the market for all the 
produce of the country. 

The population of Galveston is about 5,000 ; no 
great accession of citizens has been made for the last 
year. 

The society is refined and intelligent, probably, equal 
to any other southern city. Its religious character is 
highly respectable. The church buildings are very 
creditable, and the people of Galveston deserve the 
credit of giving these objects the pre-eminence they 
should possess — that of constituting the most elegant 
public buildings of the city. In respect to morality, 



TEXAS IN 1850. 157 

Galveston is superior to many other places whose pre- 
tensions have been greater than a Texan city has been 
permitted to claim. That baleful nuisance to public 
morals — a theatre — has not been permitted to be 
reared as yet, and long may the counteracting influ- 
ence of religion and the good sentiment of Galveston 
keep this bane from intruding its demoralizing effects 
upon the youthful population of that community. How- 
ever Texas may be represented in other respects, she 
can boast this exemption, at present, over other south- 
ern States ; and may her cities continue to grow up 
under those influences which shall find a substitute for 
those amusements, which are, in their tendency, di- 
rectly calculated to deprave the heart and depress the 
standard of virtue and morality. 

The situation of Galveston, being surrounded by 
water, is peculiarly delightful. The Island is thirty 
miles in length, and varying from one half mile, to one 
and a half in breadth. It is destitute of trees, except- 
ing those which have been transplanted, and in this 
artificial improvement, the people of Galveston have 
not been deficient. Shrubbery of every variety is cul- 
tivated with a great degree of taste. Flowers of every 
description may be seen at all seasons of the year. 
Oranges and lemons grow well, and various other 
trop'cal f-'uits. 

The appearance of Galveston is imposing, and can- 
not fail of striking the stranger with a favorable impres- 
sion. The breezes from the Gulf arc very refreshuig, 
aad serve to purity the atmosphere and render it health- 

14 



158 TEXAS IN 1850. 

ful. As a residence, Galveston possesses attractions 
equal to anj other southern city, and when the contem- 
plated improvements are completed, it will combine 
every advantage necessary for constituting it a city of 
superior importance. 

Houston, the city next in importance to Galveston, 
is situated at the head of Buffalo Bayou. Buffalo Ba- 
you is navigable at all seasons of the year, a distance 
from Galveston of about 90 miles, for vessels drawing 
six feet of water. The commercial facilities, with the 
advantage of inland trade, are rapidly advancing the 
city of Houston in wealth and importance. Its situa- 
tion is handsome, salubrious ; and w^ell watered, and sur- 
rounded by fertile and well-timbered land. It contains 
already a population of 4,000 inhabitants, and the con- 
stant accessions bid fair for Houston to become a pop- 
ulous city. Every department of business is success- 
fully pursued, and an uncommon degree of enterprise 
and public spirit is manifested by the citizens in ad- 
vaning the city in its general interests. 

The society of Houston is refined and intelligent, 
and the religious and educational advantages are such 
as are calculated to exert their salutary and moraliz- 
ing influence. There are four elegant church edifices, 
and a settled ministry of the different Protestant denom- 
inations. All the advantages and privileges are en- 
joyed in Houston which are found elsewhere. 

Were some of the erroneous calculators of Texan 
morals and refinement from abroad to visit Houston, 
they might, and with very good reason, come to the 



TEXAS IN 1850. 159 

conclusion that Texas was not so f.ir in the " back- 
ground " as has been represented. The people of 
Houston are proverbial for their politeness -and hospi- 
tality to strangers ; and if some of our friends from 
abroad would like to acquaint themselves with a Texan 
city, we invite them most cordially to satisfy their curi- 
osity, and from the truth of our assertions, by giving 
Houston a friendly call. Facts — eloquent facts — 
would satisfy any impartial individual, that society in 
Texas is not of an inferior order, but that public senti- 
ment is as elevated as may be found in any other por- 
tion of the United States. 

Brazoria, situated thirty miles from the mouth r.f the 
Brazos, is a town which claims a good degree of conse- 
quence. Its early settlement gave flattering indications 
of its being one of the most important towns of Texas. 
Circumstances, however, operated to retard its pros- 
perity, and, after various depressions, it has, at the 
present, assumed an appearance which promises its 
future prosperity. Its business is increasing, and its 
commercial location, being easy of access and conven- 
ient to the sea, will inevitably render it a place of con- 
siderable interest. Its situation is healthy, and being 
upon an elevation it has a pleasing and commanding 
appearance. 

The population of Brazoria is composed of a very good 
class of citizens, yet there exists a great deficiency in 
the moral and educational advantages of the town. No 
permanent schools have been established there, as yet, 
though the town and country presents ample advan- 



IGO TEXAS IN 1850. 

tages for literary institutions of the first order. The 
defect is probably owing to the want of suitable teachers 
to carry the object into successful operation. The citi- 
zens have been, and are at the present, under the neces- 
sity of sending their children to other places for school 
advantages. 

The religious privileges of Brazoria are also limited, 
and the future prospects are alarming on account of the 
selection of this place, by the Roman Catholics, for the 
erection of a spacious church, which object is about to 
be carried into execution. 

The influence which Romanism might gain upon a 
people not strongly fortified by religious principle, ren- 
ders the Protestant interests of this interesting section 
( f country exceedingly precarious, and appeals loudly 
for counteract ng efforts to be immediately brought 
into operation. This object, deferred until a future time, 
may, perhaps, give the strong-armed foe so much the 
advance that no measures hereafter will be able to 
counteract. An important opening is presented for 
evangelical laborers, and may Brazoria be taken into 
the consideration of those individuals who are desirous 
of promoting true Bible religion in Texas. 

Columbia and Richmond, situated also on the Brasos,, 
are interesting growing towns. North, on the same 
river, is San Felipe, a town claiming some distinction on 
account of its early origin. It was founded by Gen. 
Austin in 1824, and constituted the capital of Austin's 
colony. It was the capital designated for Texas before 
its separation from Coahuila, and was the place where 



TEXAS IN 1850. 161 

all the public business "was transacted. The town was 
destroyed by fire durin*^- the Texan revolution, since 
which it has been partially rebuilt, but has never reas- 
sunied its former consequence. 

The situation of San Felipe is particularly beautiful. 
It is on a high prairie bluff, forty feet above the level 
of the river, an elevation which is rarely to be met with 
in this section of country. 

San Felipe is still a place of some business, and re- 
tains a good degree of respectability. 

Matagorda, an interesting town of one thousand in- 
habitants, is situated on a bay of the same name, at the 
mouth of the Colorado river. Vessels drawing seven 
feet of water approach within six miles of town. It is 
considered a very healthy location — enjoying a con- 
stant sea breeze, in all its freshness and purity. Hence 
it is sought as a summer's residence for the w^ealthy 
planters of the vicinity. 

Matagorda was settled quite early, and was formerly 
a place of much business, being the only place of depot 
on the Colorado river, and of an extensive fertile coun- 
try, which found its natural market at this point. Other 
towns springing up have lessened its consequence some- 
what ; it retains, however, a good degree of importance, 
and has recently received a fresh impulse by which its 
business is rapidly increasing. 

The religious character of Matagorda is very respec- 
table. The Ejnscopal and Baptist churches have good 
buildings, a!id the regular administration of the gospel. 
The former consists of nearly 150 members. The 

14* 



162 TEXAS IN 1850. 

churcli was organized at a very early period, and was 
sustained mainly through the efforts of the Rev. Mr. 
Ives, who came to Matagorda in 1837, and manifested 
an untiring zeal in the promotion of the spiritual inter- 
ests of the people, until his arduous labors wore out his 
constitution and ended his life in 1849. Mr. Ives may 
well be regarded as an important benefactor to the moral 
nterests of Matagorda. " The memory of the just is 
blessed." 

No good school buildings have been erected, as yet, 
though such are in contemplation ; and if the union and 
co-operation of the people could be effected, this place 
would afford an excellent location for an institution of 
the first order. 

Conflicts in school matters have retarded the pro- 
gress of education in Matagorda, as has been the case 
in. numerous other instances in Texas. 

This -feown, for several years, has enjoyed the advan- 
tage of a teacher of music, by which means the youth 
have acquired a good degree of proficiency in this 
accomplishment, an advantage which is not usually 
enjoyed in Texas. 

Instrumental and vocal music have not received a 
great degree of attention, as yet ; but, as the country 
advances in improvements, this subject will, probably, 
acquire a paramount importance. Competent music 
teachers would not fail of meeting with a good degree 
of encouragement, at the present, and they might with 
much reason be hailed as important agents of useful- 
ness, in moulding the moral sentiments of youth, by 



TEXAS IN 1850. 163 

turning their attention from trivial amusements to the 
cultivation of those powers which might be rendered to 
them sources of pleasure and usefulness. 

Matagorda and Brazoria are important points, both 
of which constitute the county seats of two wealthy 
counties. The distance between the two points is forty 
miles ; the land is exceedingly fertile, and most of the 
country densely populated. This is known as an exten- 
sive body of lands called " Old Caney," which is well 
adapted to the cultivation of cotton and sugar ; the 
latter proAdng to be much the most certain and profita- 
ble crop, the planters are mostly turning their atten- 
tion to its cultivation. The Caney country is heavily 
timbered with a variety of species, rendering building 
materials abundant. 

The planters are generally wealthy, and are desirous 
of availing themselves of schools, preaching of the gos- 
pel, &c. 

We have enumerated some of the principal towns of 
Middle Texas, and in the presentation have endeavored 
to give an accurate description of their local situation, 
present advantages, and future prospects. These towns 
are regarded as combining such natural and artificial 
facilities as will, probably, insure their continued pros- 
perity. Towns in Texas have, hitherto, been chang- 
ing and uncertain ; and even now, fluctuations are 
of common occurrence, and permanent calculations 
for the future are somewhat precarious. Such arc 
the changes which are constantly occurring, that it is 
not at all improbable that places which have scarcely 



164 TEXAS IN 1850. 

acqu'red the name of town, as yet, may start up and 
rival others which are of mature standing. To mark 
these changes, their causes and consequences, will be a 
subject of interesting observation. 

There are many interesting growing settlements not 
included in our present sketch, which, after the lapse of 
a year, might bear a prominent place in a description of 
Texas. In some portions which have been omitted, the 
population is sparse and widely scattered ; nevertheless, 
they are exceedingly important, as presenting interesting 
fields, which need to be penetrated with moral influences, 
and urgent appeal should be made in their behalf. 
Members of churches are found scattered, here and 
there, like " sheep without a shepherd." Great desti- 
tution prevails among all the denominations of Protes- 
tant Christians. " The harvest truly is great, but the 
laborers are few ; pray ye, therefore, the Lord of the har- 
vest, that he would send forth laborers into his harvest." 

Perhaps in no denomination have there existed greater 
deficiencies than in the Old Presbyterian church. There 
are many Presbyterians in Texas, both of the Old and 
New School Church, who have been hitherto, in some 
parts of the State, so widely scattered from each other, 
as to render it impracticable to be gathered into 
churches. By emigration, the numbers have become so 
much increased, that organizations might be formed in 
almost every town. Ministers are essentially needed 
to gather these scattered sheep into a fold, and those who 
can feel it their duty to submit to the sacrifices and 
privations of building up churches under present disad- 



TEXAS IN 1850. 165 

vantages would certainly be doing an important work. 
Many places might be found which would give able 
and devoted ministers a sufficient support where 
the people ought to be sought out and gathered 
into churches. Such pioneers are evidently required 
to lay the foundation of future institutions of religion 
and learnino; throudiout the land. No class of mis- 
sionaries are more worthy of respect for their disinter- 
estedness and self-denial, than those ministers who 
throw themselves into the difficulties of such a field, 
encouraged only by the prospect of so glorious a result 
as the diffusion of evangelical principles and institutions 
among the people of this growing State. 

The prospects of the Presbyterian denomination have 
been greatly brightened during the last year by the 
arrival of several ministers, having been sent out by 
the Missionary Board. This accession has partially 
suppUed existing wants, but is not yet adequate to the 
demand. The Macedonian cry must still be repeated, 
'' Come over and help us." 

While we would enlist the sympathy and co-operation 
of those who are divinely commissioned to '' preach 
the gospel," we would present the fact, that a great 
field is open in Texas for the influence and labors of 
private Christians ; and we would cast an imploring look 
to those larsre and extensive churches abroad, which lux- 
uriate in their extensive privileges beneath the full- 
orbed splendor of gospel ordinances. In no way could 
newly settled countries be so speedily evangelized as by 
the emigration of portions of churches into destitute 



166 TEXAS IN 1850. 

places. It would be well for the cause of Christianity 
in our land and world, tliat the missionary spirit was 
more extensively cultivated in the churches of the North 
and East. It is not an unreasonable supposition that, 
upon proper examination of this subject, duty might 
impose itself upon private Christians to emigrate, 
mainly for the influence which they might be able to 
exert in the promotion of piety and evangelical religion. 
It would be truly gratifying to see several members* 
of the same church, from a highly privileged country, 
where a high-toned spirit of piety had been nurtured, 
coming to Texas, and bringing along those holy and 
sanctifying influences with them ! Such an emigration 
would tend greatly to elevate the standard of vital piety. 
We would suggest the importance of members of Christ's 
body in the northern and eastern churches taking this 
subject hito consideration, and inquire how far their 
Lord and Master requires their services in the work of 
spreading and sustaining the institutions of the gospel 
in Texas. In support of the propriety of the sugges- 
tion, we will make use of the sentiment of a distin- 
guished divine of the United States, who, with true 
Christian philanthropy, casts his eye to the wide moral 
wastes and desolations on the one hand, and on the 
other the superabundant blessings, and makes it very 
apparent that a great error is existing in the churches 
in the neglect of action upon this subject. 

" Churches in favored portions of country greatly err 
in neglecting or refusing to colonize when they ought, 
and as they ought. What would you have us to do ? 



TEXAS IN 1850. 167 

it may be asked. We hold it to be a principle as clear 
as the sun in mid-daj^ heaven, that every church, con- 
tiguous to a lariie, increasing, and destitute population, 
is bound when her number and ability will warrant, to 
colonize. She owes it to her Lord and Master — she 
owes it to herself — she owes it to dying souls around 
her, to colonize. To remain with her multitude and 
strength, rejoicing at the ease with which she can sus- 
tain herself, and congratulating herself in view of her 
respectability and strength, is but hiding her hght under 
a bushel, when it should be shining forth brightly for 
the glory of God, and for the guidance of the lost and 
wandering, in the way of peace." 

What can her large membership accomplish on so 
small an arena as one church organization ? " The over- 
stocked hive produces a multitude of idlers, who clus- 
ter around, giving emission sim{)ly to the lazy hum of 
somnolence." There is not room for the development 
of Christian activities ; there is not occasion for that 
self-denial and up-taking of the cross, which are essen- 
tial to growth in grace. 

Commend me to that church which separates into 
colonies, where room is given for the delightful play of 
holy activities, and where, in a short time, each divid- 
ing branch equals in size and strength the original stock, 
and each is prepared again to send out its young and 
healthy colony. In this way, and in this way only, 
can the land be possessed. 

What is the duty of the churches in the North 
and East, with all their strength and multitude ? 



168 TEXAS IN 1850. 

A church should first select some populous district of 
destitution, build it a suitable church edifice, and then 
set off a colony by dividing her numbers and strength 
equally. This is the proper idea of colonizing. In 
this case, both branches are equal in strength and in- 
fluence, both have room to build and increase, and both 
are spiritually enriched — many souls are gathered 
into the fold of Christ, and a great revenue of glory is 
brought home to God. Shortly, each branch is increased 
fully to the size of the original body, and is prepared 
again to colonize and take possession of more of the 
land, in the name of Christ her King. 

What might be done in behalf of Texas, if Christians 
would but realize the responsibihty resting upon them 
as individuals and churches ! What glorious achieve- 
ments might not the Church accomplish for Christ, if 
she would act upon her manifest duty. 

In conclusion, we invite large and able churches to 
cast their eyes upon the feeble churches in Texas, where 
a few noble spirits have been struggling for years to 
maintain the standard of the cross. Brethren, you 
have men enough and means enough to place them on 
high vantage ground. Can you neglect to place them 
on that ground, and be innocent ? Who has given you 
a dispensation to nestle at your ease in this vineyard of 
the Lord, while others are laboring to great disadvan- 
tage for lack of aid, which you might easily render ? 
We exhort you, in the name of Christ, who gave himself 
for you, forthwith to come to the succor of these feeble 
churches, sparing neither men nor money, until they 



TEXAS IN 1850. 169 

are placed on a commanding eminence of influence and 
power to do good. 

What a distinguished English writer says of England, 
is eminently true of the Christian Church in Texas. 
" "VVe want a better church to make a better country. 
Without a better church, we cannot have a better coun- 
try." The moral renovation of this land is a mighty 
achievement and requires the most ardent and energetic 
piety. We want intelligence warmed with a holy enthu- 
siasm, and enthusiasm guided by intelligence ; a religion 
of f)ower, of love, and of a sound mind ; a religion com- 
bining something of the enthusiasm of prophets, the zeal 
of apostles, the selfdenial of pilgrims, and the con- 
stancy of martyrs. Our churches must be composed of 
members strong in faith and fervent in prayer — of 
members separated from the world, spiritually minded, 
selfdenying, rejoicing in hope, and waiting, looking, 
and longing for the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ ; 
of members who consider this world not so much a 
place for present enjoyment, as of discipline, probation, 
and preparation for future happiness. We cannot ren- 
ovate the land, and erect the altars of a pure sj)iritual 
Christianity, as we are now. We shall do something. 
We have done something ; but we must do a great deal 
more. We may have the blessing ; but, unless our stand- 
ard of piety becomes more elevated, we shall not have 
the fullness of the blessing. We may lay the wave 
sheaf upon the altar, but we shall do little towards gath- 
ering the harvest. AVe want money, we want laborers ; 
but there is something we want more than either ; and, 



170 TEXAS IN 1850. 

if we had, would give us more of both of them and 
that IB ^ faith and prayer. 

Western Texas embraces that portion of the State 
situated between the Colorado and Rio Grande rivers, 
and contains 19 counties, which are the following, 
commencing on the South of the Colorado. 

Counties. Skiretotvns, 

Calhoun, Port Lavaca, 

Jackson, Texana, 

Victoria, Victoria, 

Lavaca, Petersburg, 

Gonzales, Gonzales, 

Caldwell, . Lockhart, 

Hays, Sanmarcos, 

Gillespie, Fredericksburg. 
Those situated on the Rio Grande, commencing at 
the South. 

Cameron, Santa Rita, 

Starr, Rio Grande, 

Webb, Laudo, 

Intermediate, commencing at the South. 

Refugio, Refugio, 

San Patricio, San Patricio, 

Nueces, Corpus Christi, 

Goliad, Goliad, 

De Witt, Cuero, 

Bexar, San Antonio, 

Medina, Castreville, 

Comal, New Braunfels. 
This portion of Texas presents a vast field yet to be 



TEXAS IN 1850. 171 

occupied. Its immense extent of teiTitory, its hetero- 
geneous population, gathered from every country, the 
conflicting elements which meet in its social state, the 
obstacles to be met and overcome in evangelizing it, 
and the means requisite for bringing the land under 
the influence of evangelical religion, are subjects which 
give this division a greater degree of interest than any 
other. 

Although some parts claim a very early settlement, 
it is much more sparsely settled than Eastern or Mid- 
dle Texas. The relation of the Indians has been great- 
ly embarrasing. Until recently, quite a proportion of 
Western Texas has been the abode of tribes of hostile 
Indians, and even now along the whole extent of the 
Rio Grande, the name of " Camanche " is a sound of 
dread alarm. The protection of the frontier from the 
incursions of the Indians is a subject of deep importance 
to the interests of this interesting portion of the State. 
The depredations which have been committed during 
the last year, plainly manifest the improtected condi- 
tion of a portion of the United States which has an 
unquestionable claim that its citizens should be guarded 
against such ruthless outrages. It is a lamentable fact, 
that numbers of lives have been sacrificed, property 
wrested from lawful owners ; inflicted, too, upon persons 
who depended upon the assertions of the nation's exec- 
utive, having migrated to the frontiers of Texas, there 
to meet death upon the spot, where the nation had prom- 
ised til em safety. This state of things ought not to be 
permitted to exist ; and it becomes the General Govern- 



172 TEXAS IN 1850. 

menfc to bring the proper measures into operation for 
suppressing such lawless outrages. 

To facilitate the extension of population into the val- 
uable and fertile lands of Western Texas, it is indispen- 
sable that means should be adopted for the security of 
the country of the Rio Grande valley. This being 
immediately in the range of Indian hostilities, emigrants 
are not desirous of making it their residence, hence it 
cannot receive that accession to its population which it 
otherwise would. 

The present military force is entirely inadequate to 
the emergency. Three or four hundred men, scattered 
at different points, are not sufficient for protecting a 
frontier of such extent ; and as long as such evident 
deficiencies exist, the settlements will be harassed by 
continual alarms of incursions, threatening to involve 
them in one general massacre. To quiet such appre- 
hensions, no time should be lost in reinforcing the 
present army with a sufficient military power, to drive 
those dangerous marauders immediately beyond the 
limits of Texas. 

Western Texas will eventually constitute a very im- 
portant portion of the State. With some improvements 
in the navigation of the Rio Grande, the inhabitants 
might be put in possession of a river, second in extent 
only to the mighty Mississippi. The stream at present 
is navigated by steamboats to tho distance of about five 
hundred miles, and, by the removal of a very few ob- 
structions, it might be rendered navigable to an un- 
known extent. Recent claims have been presented to 



TEXAS IN 1850. 173 

the consideration of the United States government for 
improving the river, and also an appropriation has been 
recommended to the attention of the Mexican govern- 
ment for the same purpose. The execution of this 
object would be of immense service to the United 
States as well as to Mexico. It would facilitate greatly 
the means of supplying the upper military stations with 
stores and munitions. It would also create new markets 
in the adjoining Mexican States, and in our newly ac- 
quired possessions, for an immense amount of our 
productions. The long and arduous overland travel 
which has heretofore been carried on from St. Louis, 
Mo., would be dispensed with and the trade and trans- 
portation carried on by steamboats on the Rio Grande. 

This division is intersected by several other rivers 
which are susceptible of being rendered navigable, and 
probably will be, when the commercial resources of 
Texas are fully taken into consideration. 

The immense prairie regions of Western Texas by 
cultivation yield abundantly every variety of production. 
The northern portions are intersected with mountains, 
but the land in the vicinity of the mountainous districts 
is found to be favorable to the production of all kinds 
of grain ; wheat grows in the greatest perfection ; sugar 
and cotton are cultivated with a good degree of success. 

The mountains with which the north-western frontier 
is interspersed are an essential advantage in rendering 
the atmosphere more salubrious, and also of being 
sources of innumerable springs and streams which 
serve to irrigate the country, and form the head 

15* 



174 TEXAS IN 1850. 

]3ranches of all the large rivers of the middle and wes- 
tern portion of the State. This part abounds with 
excellent manufacturing sites, and will inevitably be a 
great manufacturing country. 

In many parts of this region, coal of a superior 
quality and iron have been found, and it is supposed 
that beds of these valuable minerals extend over a 
great part of the country. Silver mines were wrought 
towards Santa Fe in the northwest, till the works were 
destroyed by the Camanches. 

Among the natural curiosities of this portion of 
country, is the " Cross Timbers," a continuous series of 
forests, varying in breadth from five to ten miles. It 
appears at a distance like an immense wall of wood ; 
and from the west such is its linear regularity, that it 
looks as if it were planted by art. 

Western Texas presents some interesting remains of 
antiquity, among which are the old " Missions." Un- 
der the Spanish dominion, each principal settlement 
was placed under the government of a military com- 
mandant, who exercised civil and military authority 
within the limits of his presidio. At each presidio was 
established a " mission," which generally preceded the 
formation of settlements, and was, in fact, the nucleus 
around which population concentrated in the wilderness. 
The old " Missions," or ancient edifices, whose remains 
are yet seen, were of massive stone, and resembled the 
feudal castles of Europe. Several of them were erected 
by the Spaniards from Mexico early in the eighteenth 
century ; some of them are co-eval with the oldest 



TEXAS IN 1850. 175 

cities in the United States. They were nearly all built 
upon the same general plan, consisting of a church in a 
fort. Of these, the most ancient are those of San An- 
tonio de Bexar, and GoHad. The former has become 
memorable in the recent history of Texas, on account 
of the bloody tragedy of the Alama, and the fall of 
Travis and his heroic band ; the latter as being the 
place of the confinement and subsequent destruction of 
Fannin and his company. 

The history connected with this portion of Texas is 
replete with incident of the most interesting character. 
These details might furnish matter for a volume, but, as 
it is not consistent with the plan of the present work 
to give a relation of past events, we can only take a 
glance now and then, of what transpired in early times, 
and hasten to represent Texas, as she is at the present, 
and what she must he in the future. 

The population of Western Texas is composed of 
every grade of character. The wild Indian, Mexican, 
European, and American blend their contrasting in- 
fluence. The future well-being of this division depends 
greatly upon the amount of Protestant emigrations. 
Romanism still lingers in the Rio Grande valley ; it has 
never entirely ceased its sway, and the last few years 
have given an additional strength by a reinforcement of 
foreign Catholics, who, in coming to this land of freedom 
and equal rights, have calculated upon the privilege of 
liberty of conscience ; and such, indisputa1)ly is their 
right. Yet it is proper to hope that the light shining 
from the volume of Divine truth may dissipate the 



176 TEXAS IN 1850. 

shades of superstition and error, and that they may be- 
come constrained by its superior efficacy to yield to its 
happy influence, thus finding in this free land a disen- 
thralment from mental as well as physical servitude. 

There are many exceedingly interesting towns in 
Western Texas, some of remote origin, and some which 
have come into existence but recently ; springing up, 
as it were, by magic. Notwithstanding Indian hostili- 
ties, emigration is flowing in, and all the departments of 
business and enterprise are in operation. When the 
disturbances become suppressed, and the navigation of 
the rivers become improved, a more delightful region 
of country cannot be found, perhaps, on the face of the 
globe. The contiguity of Mexico will require a strong 
counteracting influence, and it is very evident that the 
most efficient measures are requisite for elevating the 
population of the valley of the Rio Grande to a high 
point of moral pow^r. The time has come for efforts 
to be put forth for this object. A tardiness at this par- 
ticular conjuncture may be fatal ; other influences may 
be permitted to operate so that no means may be able 
hereafter to compete and counteract. 

It is truly gratifying that there is an awakening to 
this subject in Christendom, and that the evangelization of 
Mexico is taken into consideration in connection with that 
of Texas. A vast field for missionary labor is presented 
with urgent claims upon Christians of the United States 
for efficient measures to be immediately brought into 
operation. The Mexicans are ready and waiting, ap- 
parently to receive the gospel. The door is open and 
the field is wide, and " white unto the harvest." 



TEXAS IN 1850. HT 

Dr. Baker, wlio has recently returned from a mis- 
sionary tour in the valley of the Rio Grande, gives an 
interesting report of this important section. He thus 
writes, " In many respects this valley is both important 
and interesting. Besides the Americans, there are, by 
estimation, some twenty thousand Mexicans scattered 
over the valley of the Rio Grande. These Mexicans 
are nominally Roman Catholic, but appear, just at this 
tiijie, ripe for the gospel. Many, I am told, have come 
over upon our side of the river, to get rid of the 
domination and oppressive exactions of their priests. 
Moreover, they are better pleased with our laws and 
government — and, on account of the superiority of 
the Americans during the late war, have a profound 
respect for every American. Indeed, they have such 
a sense of our superiority in the arts, both of war and 
peace, that they are willing, as children, to sit at our 
feet and be taught ; and that especially, as their priests 
are generally openly immoral, and seem to have no care 
for their souls, but only for their money. Paul could 
say, " I seek not yours, but you." Where is the 
Mexican priest who can say this ? Echo answers — 
ivhere. A young man who wishes to labor amongst the 
heathen, would not, could not, wish a better field than 
that presented in the valley of the Rio Grande — for, 
Romanism, amongst the ^Mexicans, is only another form 
of paganism, and very many of these i)Oor dehided 
creatures greatly desire to learn our language and our 
religion too ! They receive Protestant tracts with great 
eagerness ; will pay for them ; and as for the Bible, 



178 TEXAS IN 1850. 

wlien they get a copy, they consider it a great prize. 
0, how much good could a missionary do amongst this 
people in the valley of the Rio Grande ! But, he must 
be acquainted with the Spanish language, and must be 
willing to go from ranche to ranche, and fare hard. 
Will not some of the young men from our Seminaries, 
go to this region, and try to bring these poor benighted 
ones under the Protestant and heavenly influences ? 

While in Brownsville, Dr. Baker saw a colporteur, 
-who had just come down from Roma to Brownsville on 
the Mexican side. On his trip, he had sold forty dollars 
worth of books and tracts. 

An officer connected with the U. S. army, who is an 
intelligent New Englander, and a member of the Con- 
gregational Church, recently communicated to the agent 
of the American Sunday School Union, for Texas, the 
following valuable information in relation to the country 
of the Tipper Rio Grande, and its inhabitants. 

" This is rapidly becoming quite an important part 
of the State of Texas. Its salubrious climate, fertile 
soil, and superior advantages as a pasturable and grain- 
growing country, are rapidly attracting to it a numerous 
and valuable population. The civil authorities of Texas 
are now actively engaged in extending its jurisdiction 
over that interesting part of the State. Measures are 
now in progress for the complete organization of the 
counties of Worth, El Paso, and Presidio. Immediately 
opposite El Paso is an Island about twenty-five miles 
long, and five miles wide, formed by a recent cut-off in 
the Rio Grande. This Island is within the limits of 



i 



TEXAS IN 1850. 179 

Texas. The soil is of the most fertile character. The 
Island is a delightful place of residence. It is supposed 
now to contain a population of about eight thousand 
souls, a large majority of whom are natives of Mexico 
— the remainder, emigrants from the older States of 
the Union, several from the Southern and Eastern 
part of Texas." This officer stated " that, in his inter- 
course with the Mexicans, on both sides of the river, 
he found them kind and affable in their deportment — 
a simple, inoffensive race — disposed to welcome the 
accession of the citizens of the United States to their 
population. 

Almost every grown man can read in Spanish. He 
thinks the character of the country, out of which the 
new counties before mentioned are to be organized, is 
such as to render them susceptible of a very dense pop- 
ulation. He visited several of the Catholic priests, and 
was kindly received, though he does not speak very 
favorably of their morals. He visited among the Mex- 
ican families, and circulated among them Spanish Bi- 
bles, which were kindly received. Protestant ministers 
of the gospel, and school teachers are much needed in 
the upper part of the Rio Grande valley. There is 
not one of either of these classes of individuals higher 
up than Brownsville, about one thousand miles below EI 
Paso. 

Who will volunteer in the benevolent enterprise of 
furnishing the Rio Grande valley with laborers ? Will 
not New England, with her extensive means, lend a help- 
ing hand ? Talent, piety, and enterprise are demanded, 



180 TEXAS IN 1850. 

and she, from her boundless resources, can furnish an 
ample supply. Could we be permitted to return to the 
land of our nativity, and re-enter those literary halls we 
were wont to frequent, no greater pleasure could be 
afforded than to appeal to the sympathy of pioas indi- 
viduals in behalf of the Rio Grande valley. Of itself, it 
is immeasurably important, but in casting an eye west- 
ward and looking at the extensive missionary field which 
comes up with its claims, it seems to possess attractions 
which would inevitably enlist an interest, and inspire 
immediate efforts in its behalf. 

The field is sufficiently expansive to enlist a host of 
volunteers. Mexico must be evangelized, and a con- 
centration of effort is demanded for the enterprise. 
Souls 7niist be disenthralled from darkness and error in 
that benighted Repubhc ! The Saviour demands it — 
the travail of his soul, his dying agonies, his interces- 
sion demand it ; and will Christians linger ? The work 
is great — nevertheless, it can be done. An immense 
"crevasse," as Dr. Baker observes, is opened; and 
shall not floods of light and streams of mercy flow in for 
the enlightening and purifying of the nation ? The 
influence must be raised — the appointed means of gos- 
pel dissemination must be put in operation ! Ministers, 
Bibles, and Sabbath Schools are the agencies ; and, let 
these be brought to exert their influence, and Mexico 
will be seen shining forth in moral beauty and splendor. 

The stronghold of Romanism will require a perse- 
vering effort to remove ; yet, by the appointed means, the 
defying front which it now presents will, by a gradual 



TEXAS IN 1850. 181 

process, assume an aspect -which will rejoice the Chris, 
tian world more than did the reduction of the mighty 
capitol, and the storming of Vera Cruz, the military 
world. Trophies, not of hlood and carnage, but achieve- 
ments, more noble than ever graced a chieftain's brow, 
would proclaim that Mexico is conquered, not to na- 
tional power, but to the peaceful influence of the great 
Captain of eternal salvation. 

The various towns of Western Texas present im- 
portant openings for usefulness ; some of the most 
prominent will be remarked. 

San Antonio is situated on a river of the same name, 
in a very undulating region of country in the county of 
Bexar. It is built on a letter S, formed by the San 
Antonio river, which rises two miles above the town, 
and is some thirty feet wide and six feet deep. It is 
an ancient town, has been the scene of numerous wars, 
and has acquired a notoriety for being a place where 
more battles have been fought, and more blood spilt, 
than perhaps in all the rest of Texas. A military out- 
post was established here by the Spanish government 
in 1718. In 1731, the town was settled by emigrants 
sent out from the Canary Islands by the king of Spain. 
It became a flourishing settlement and continued so till 
the revolution in 1812. After that period, the hostile 
incursions of the Camanche and other Indians ha- 
rassed the inhabitants to such an extent as to suspend 
and nearly destroy the prosperity of the town. After 
various deisressions and revivals, it has assumed both 
morally and physically a more favorable character. 

16 



182 TEXAS IN 1850. 

San Antonio has at present a population of about 
6,000 inhabitants, quite a proportion of which are Mex- 
icans, and has been, until quite recently, entirely under 
Roman Catholic influence. 

*" We have often heard and read of the moral de- 
pravity of San Antonio, and that this depravity, instead 
of being checked and subdaed by Romanism, had been 
encouraged and promoted thereby, especially by the 
example of the Roman priests, who had been more 
devoted to the pleasures of the card-table and the bil- 
liard room, than to the appropriate duties and functions 
of their high office. Under the influence of a reli- , 
gion of pompous and superstitious ceremonies, with 
a secular and corrupt priesthood, what other result 
could be anticipated, but that of the universal de- 
pravity of the people. The Americans who first set- 
tled there, had not sufficient strength of moral princi- 
ple to stand against the sweeping tide of depravity, 
and were, consequently, borne onward in its course. 
Many young men have made shipwreck of their prin- 
ciples, and been engulfed in the vortex of dissipa- 
tion. 

" It is but within a few years past that efforts have been 
made by Protestants to improve the moral character of 
the city. The Methodist Episcopal Church South, has 
sustained a mission there for the past four years with 
encouraging success. The Presbyterian Church has 
been represented by Rev. Mr. M'Cullough, who de- 
voted two or three years to the ministry, and to teaching, 

* Texas Wesleyan Banner. 



TEXAS IN ISoO. 183 

laboring in harmony with the Methodist missionaries, 
both occupying the same house of worship. The labors 
of these missionaries have been intended principally for 
the benefit of the American population, and, to some 
considerable extent, have been successful. Much good, 
it is confidently believed, has been accomplished. 

" There is a o;eneral interest manifested amon^ the 
Americans in behalf of Protestant worship. The church, 
built mainly through the agency of Rev. Mr. M'Cul- 
lough, is generally well filled with attentive hearers 
every Sabbath. 

" San Antonio now presents an open door of usefulness 
to evangelical ministers. The American population is 
increasing rapidly, and there is generally a large num- 
ber of strangers in the city who should be accommo- 
dated with Protestant worship. 

" An effort "should be made to enlighten and improve 
the Mexican population. A limited supply of Bibles, 
Testaments, and tracts, in the Spanish language, has 
been distributed among the Mexicans ; but, to effect 
permanent results, the effort to distribute Bibles, &;c. 
should be a persevering one, and accompanied by oral 
instruction. Such an effort, prosecuted by capable and 
zealous missionaries, would soon result in a Protestant 
Mexican Church, or a church formed from the Mexican 
population — a result most ardently desired : as it 
would constitute the first fruits of a glorious moral har- 
vest among the Mexican population of the State, and 
probably of the Mexican States. Which of the Protes- 
tant churches will make the effort ? It should be com- 
menced immediately. 



184 TEXAS IN 1850. 

" The San Antonio Division of the Sons of Temper- 
ance promises great usefahiess in staying the tide of 
intemperance, and in preparing the way of the gospel 
to the hearts of many who have been, heretofore, dis- 
inclined or disquaUfied, by their dissipated habits, for a 
profitable attendance upon the ministrations of the 
gospel. 

*' San Antonio has, for years, been a commercial 
depot for the Mexican population beyond the Rio 
Grande, and the new road connecting it with El Paso 
increases its commercial importance. It is more than 
probable that the entire trade of New Mexico, El Paso, 
and Chihuahua will be diverted from St. Louis to San 
Antonio. 

" San Antonio presents ample advantages for cotton, 
woollen, and other manufactories. Its water power is 
unlimited, as are also the materials for -the necessary 
buildings. The location is healthy, and the surround- 
ing country fertile, and capable of producing supplies 
for a large population. 

" In less than twenty years, San Antonio is destined 
to be the Manchester or Lowell of Texas, if not of the 
.South. Its location upon the great military and com- 
mercial thoroughfare from the Gulf of Mexico to the 
Upper Rio Grande valley, the northern States of Mexico 
and California, as well as its vast and natural advan- 
tages and resources, point directly to its rapid growth, 
early importance, and future renown. The period 
of its isolation, almost equal to that of Palmyra of the 
Desert, is rapidly passing away. Thriving settlements 



TEXAS IN 1850. 185 

are forming -within a circle of twenty-five miles of it in 
almost every direction ; which are calculated to con- 
tribute greatly to its growth and importance. 

" San Antonio de Bexar has, for many years, been a 
city of great interest to strangers, and may the day 
never come in its history, when its noble name, asso- 
ciated with years and scenes of stirring interest, long 
since passed away, and more recently associated with 
events of thrilling interest and deeds of valor, memora- 
ble in the history of Texas, shall lose its magic power, 
or cease to be the name of the ancient, the Monumental 
City of Texas." 

Gonzales, situated on the Gaudaloupe river, is a place 
of growing importance. This town is distinguished as 
being the opening scene of the war of the Revolution, 
and it hence acquired the appellation of the " Lexing- 
ton of Texas." The situation is elevated, healthy, and 
pleasant, and possesses many natural advantages. Its 
former prosperity was retarded by Indian hostilities, 
and in 1842 was nearly desolated ; but it revived, and 
is, at the present, rapidly advancing in population and 
importance. The various reforming elements of society 
are in operation — a flourishing Temperance Society 
and a Union Sabbath School seems a very good index 
by which to judge of the sentiment of the people. 

Gonzales has less of the evils to contend with, Mex- 
ican population and influence, than many other towns 
in Western Texas, and hence its religious and general 
character presents a more favorable appearance. The 
town and vicinity being settled, mostly, by emigrants 

1G» 



186 TEXAS IN 1850. 

from the United States, the proper elements are pos- 
sessed for its future advancement and prosperity. The 
Gaudaloupe river is susceptible of being navigated as 
far as this point, which advantage, combined with rich 
and fertile lands, cannot fail of rendering Gonzales an 
important town. 

Seguin, shire town of Gaudaloupe county, deserves 
a passing notice. It is a small, though growing town, 
and has lately made an acquisition to its reputation by 
the erection of a neat chapel for public worship, being 
the first church edifice ever dedicated to the worship 
of God in Gaudaloupe county. 

The portion of country on the left bank of the Gau- 
daloupe, from the coast as high up as Comal county, is 
in a highly prosperous condition. A traveller recently 
passing over that section of country, thus writes : " In 
travelUng upon the west side of the river, as far as Se- 
guin, and along the whole journey, a constant succession 
of new plantations was presented, and the appearance 
of the whole country is greatly improved within the past 
year. The inhabitants are in good spirits, and prose- 
cuting their agricultural improvements with vigor. 
Farms and plantations are being enlarged, and build- 
ings in much better style than formerly, both as it 
regards comfort and appearance, are being erected. 

" Every where are to be met the Sons of Temperance, 
whose benign influence is abundantly manifest all over 
the country. Nowhere is this influence more man- 
ifest than in Gonzales and Seguin. Schoolhouses 
and churches are every where taking the place of 



TEXAS IN 1850. 187 

drinking establishments, and the inhabitants arc found 
attending the quarterly and protracted meetings, in- 
stead of horse-races and places of dissipation, as here- 
tofore. The circuit and resident ministers of the 
gospel have engaged with becoming zeal iu the tem- 
perance cause, and the District judges and the 
members of the bar almost in a body unite in the 
great moral reform. It may be predicted with abso- 
lute certainty, that, during the year 1850, there will 
be greater improvements made, both in a moral and 
physical point of view, than have been achieved for the 
previous five years." 

North of Seguin, situated on the south side of the 
Gaudaloupe, is New Braunfels, a town located by a 
German colony in 1845. It contains a population of 
4,000 souls — a large majority of whom are foreign 
emigrants; there being, perhaps, not more than two 
hundred Americans. For two years after its settle- 
ment the inhabitants were obliged to keep a constant 
guard on account of the incursions of the Indians. 
Those hostilities ceasing, the town has improved with 
wonderful rapidity, and bids fair to become one of con- 
siderable importance. It is situated at the foot of the 
Cordellow mountains, in a beautiful and picturesque 
country, abounding with water power, which the Ger- 
mans have improved for establishing manufactories of 
various kinds. The industry and enterprise of the 
Germans render them valuable citizens, and, could they 
be induced to lay aside their priestly expiations, and 
embrace that system of faith which acknowledges but 



188 TEXAS IN 1850. 

one mediator between God and man, tliey might be- 
come a very important acquisition to the population of 
Texas. This town presents an important field for evan- 
gelical laborers. Ministers and teachers are greatly 
needed to counteract the influence of Catholicism. 

Some three miles from New Braunfels is situated 
Comal Town. The settlement of this town was com. 
menced in 1846, and, for more than twelve months, but 
two individuals dared to reside there, it being the great 
resort of the Camanches. Causes of fear became 
dissipated, and a town of about one hundred families 
has rapidly sprung up, in which has settled a Presbyte- 
rian clergyman, who thus writes, " here, where four 
years ago was a large Camanche settlement, is a flour- 
ishing Sabbath School, and the regular preaching of the 
gospel." 

Population is fast settling the opposite side of the 
Gaudaloupe river — farms are becoming opened, so 
that the prairie looks almost like one plantation. Far- 
mers are also settling on the valley of Comal, a small, 
rapid, and beautiful stream, bursting from a rocky 
source at the distance of but a few miles, and emptying 
into the Gaudaloupe at Comal Town. 

Castroville, an interesting town, is situated on the 
"west bank of the Medina river. This town, which, but 
a very few years since, was inhabited by the wild Ca- 
manches or the wild beasts of the forest,contains two hun- 
dred and eighty houses and twelve hundred inhabitants, 
mostly French and German, who have emigrated within 
the last four or five years. The extensive improvements 



TEXAS IN 1850, 189 

which have been made in so short a period, nere made 
mainly through the influence of one individual, — Mr. 
Castro, who has expended a large fortune in establishing 
the colony. The inhabitants, who are Roman Catholics, 
have a resident priest among them, and are erecting a 
spacious stone church. 

The Medina is a clear rapid stream, affording ample 
advantages for mill seats, and some future day will, no 
doubt, be occupied by extensive cotton and woollen fac- 
tories and flouring mills. The region of country around 
Castroville is favorable to the production of wheat, and 
probably, in a few years, a sufhcient quantity of this 
grain will be raised in this portion of country to sup- 
ply the whole State. 

The foot of the mountain is not more than one mile 
from the town. The vicinity of the mountains abounds 
with specimens of iron ore. It is reputed to be abund- 
ant, and of a remarkably pure quality, which might, no 
doubt, be rendered a valuable source of wealth to the 
country. This portion- of Texas, perhaps, more than 
any other combines advantages for extensive speculations 
in agricultural and manufacturing enterprises. 

The natural beauty of this section surpasses descrip- 
tion. The lofty mountain, the broad expansive prairie, 
the pure transparent stream of water, concur to vary 
the scenery and render it peculiarly lovely. Boasting 
New England and far-famed Switzerland, with their 
mountains, lakes, and picturesque landscapes, cannot 
compete with or outvie Texas — Western Texas, the love- 
liest land upon which the sun ever shone. All, who 



190 TEXAS IN 1850. 

have ever visited thisbeautiful region, concur in ascribing 
to it beauties unsurpassed. While we disclaim imagin- 
ary paintings and fictitious speculations, we feel justified 
in the assertion that no country is more eminently 
favored by nature, both for beauty and excellence, than 
Texas. 

Indianola, formerly known as Indian Point, is a beau- 
tiful and pleasant little city, improving so rapidly during 
the last twelve months as to attract general attention. 
It now extends three fourths of a mile along the beach, 
unlike all other portions of the margin of Matagorda 
Bay, so remarkable for its beauty and cleanliness as to 
be the favorite place of resort of the Camanche Indians 
from time immemorial, on account of the abundance of 
fresh water, and the wild fruit that grew in its vicinity. 

The population is about five hundred. The town is 
increasing rapidly with every prospect and facility of 
future importance. The United States Government, 
after very thorough examination, has removed all its 
business to this place from port Lavacca. The gov- 
ernment stores intended for San Antonio, Austin, Fred- 
ericsburg, Paso del Norte, and the upper frontier posts, 
are now landed at Indianola. A large amount of ship- 
ping is done through its wharves to New Orleans and 
other ports. Indianola, from its fine and accessible 
position on the main land, is destined to be one of the 
first commercial towns in Texas. 

Goliad, situated on the San Antonio river, and about 
thirty miles from the coast, is a town of some interest ; 
though not having great claims upon popularity, it 



TEXAS IN 1850. 191 

nevertheless has some upon antiquity. It was one of 
the earhest settled towns of Texas, and was the scene 
of many interesting incidents. During the war of the 
Revolution, it was garrisoned by Mexican troops, and 
was one of the first places signalized by a triumph of 
the Texan arms in the struggle for liberty. The old 
" Mission," in which Eannin met his untimely fate, is 
still in a state of preservation, and is at present made 
subservient to the purposes of a school. A " mission" 
on the other side of the river, known as " old Labardee," 
is occupied for a dwelling. 

The country which surrounds Goliad is fertile and 
capable of being rendered highly productive. The town 
is not in an improving condition, though its situation 
is highly advantageous for a town of considerable im- 
portance. 

The population being composed mostly of jNIexicans, 
the proper elements are not possessed for very rapid 
improvements. The prosperity of towns in Texas, as 
well as elsewhere, depends greatly upon the character 
of the population — many possess the necessary physi- 
cal advantages, but, without the enterprise and public 
spirit of the people, the car of improvement makes but 
slow advance. 

Towns on the Rio Grande are springing up at differ- 
ent points with wonderful rapidity. Within the last few 
months, several have sprung into existence. Edln- 
borough and New St. Louis have been started within a 
few weeks ; the former about one mile, and the latter 
four miles below Rcinoso. Brownsville, situated oppo- 
site Matamoras, has rivalled in its rapid prosperity every 



192 TEXAS IN 1850. 

other town in Texas. Although but two years old, it 
contains a population of three thousand inhabitants, 
and, according to present indications, will soon be a large 
and populous city. The amount of business transacted 
at Brownsville is immense, far exceeding any calculation 
based upon the population. By estimation, it is com- 
puted that six million dollars worth of goods have been 
received there during the last year. So great has been 
the increase of trade between Brownsville and the interior 
of Mexico, that the two ferries between Brownsville and 
Matamoras, which the first year were rented for less than 
one hundred dollars, have this year been rented for 
nine thousand. Besides a vast amount of freight, which 
some two or three steamers are continually engaged in 
taking from Brazos Santiago round by the mouth of the 
Rio Grande, and up that river, a single house at Point 
Isabel, forwards on to Brownsville by land, from ten to 
twelve thousand barrels per month. The fact is, that 
much of the trade of Tampico and Vera Cruz now 
passes through this channel. Brownsville is now the 
great gateway of entrance into Mexico, and is taking 
the business almost entirely away from Matamoras. 
The situation of Brownsville combines beauty of 
scenery as well as natural advantages. The vicinity 
has become hallowed by interesting scenes during the 
late war. This portion of the Bio Grande valley is 
associated with scenes of thrilling interest. Here our 
army first met the Mexican foe, and on the plains of 
Palo Alto and Rcsaca de la Palma, were achieved the 
first Uo of a series of victories unparalleled in the 



TEXAS IN 1850. 193 

history of civilized warfare. Although those scenes of 
blood and carnage are passed by, no one can look upon 
those interesting battle fields without feelings of deep- 
est emotion ; and though time may work its changes, 
long will it be ere those sacred places lose their power 
to interest. The soil which has been wet with human 
blood for the defence of liberty and justice, has become 
too deeply hallowed, to be soon regarded with careless 
indifference. 

Considerable taste and expenditure are manifested in 
the buildings of Brownsville. Some dozen brick houses 
are now in progress, all of them large and costly build- 
ings, one nearly covering a whole square, and another 
about half a square. The enterprize of the citizens is not 
only manifested in advancing the town in its worldly 
interests, but a very good degree of interest is displayed 
in the promotion of moral objects. Before Brownsville 
was six months old, the citizens applied to the agent of 
the American Sunday School Union for Texas, for pub- 
lications with which to commence a Union Sunday 
School. The request was granted, the books were 
promptly forwarded, and a school was organized, in 
which was manifested a lively interest. The youth of 
Matamoras were invited to participate in the benefits of 
the Sunday School, and verily^ from that city of Ro- 
manism, many came to be taught in the principles of 
the holy Bible. This fact exhibits an example of what 
Protestant influence may serve to effect upon the Mexi- 
can population on the other side of the Bio Grande. 
May such " light houses " be erected at every point of 

17 



194 TEXAS IN 1850. 

that noble river ; so vivid and penetrating may their 
rajs be, that their influence shall be seen and felt to 
the extreme of that benighted country. Let the glori- 
ous volume of Divine truth unfold its sacred leaves upon 
the banks of the Rio Grande, the darkened shadows of 
Romanism would disperse like " dew before the morn- 
ing sun." Wliere are the agents to scatter this heavenly 
light ? Where are those wbo will rightly appreciate this 
glorious privilege ? It is not worldly wealth we would 
allure you to gather — no, treasures, richer far — souls 
— immortal souls, which, disenthralled from error's 
night and transplanted to heaven's eternal day, shall 
shine with that transcendant lustre which will obscure 
the brightest golden ore the earth ever produced. 

The missionary of the Rio Grande valley occupies a 
point of influence, unsurpassed, perhaps, by any other 
spot on earth. Who does not covet the privilege of 
holding up the torch of Eternal truth to the benighted 
Mexican ? 

The people of Brownsville also made very laudable 
efibrts to obtain a minister of piety and talents, and suc- 
ceeded in securing the services of a Presbyterian cler- 
gyman, sent out by the Missionary Board, a few months 
since, and who promises great usefulness in this impor- 
tant field of labor. A church has been organized, which 
embraces some of the most influential citizens. 

Still there is room — the field is not sufficiently sup- 
plied as yet — the spiritual wants of a population of 
three or four thousand souls cannot be supplied by the 
agency of one individual. Other evangelical laborers 



1 



TEXAS IN 1850. 195 

are called upon to exert their influence in behalf of this 
interesting town. On account of the extensive inter- 
course -which Brownsville has with the various parts of 
Mexico, it may be regarded an important medium of 
communication by which Protestantism may be intro- 
duced into Mexico, and hence appears the necessity of 
a strong influence of that sort being concentrated at 
this point. 

Roma, Rio Grande, Laredo and El Paso are also 
hnportant holds, which should be secured with strong 
Bible influences ; and will not the Christian world duly 
take into consideration the importance of immediately 
reinforcing those interesting places with the means 
necessary for the advancement of the much desired 
object — the moral elevation of degraded Mexico ? 

We have now travelled hastily over Texas, and from 
the interesting scenes of the Rio Grande we will turn 
and take one more glance of Texas as a whole. 

In the retrospect, an interesting subject presents 
itself — one sufficiently expansive to enlist an interest, 
perhaps unequalled in the contemplation of any other 
country. 

The early history of Texas is strange and interesting, 
if not illustrious. Occupying a point of apparent ob- 
scurity, almost unknown to the world, her daring energy 
and noble spirit flashed forth in the declaration, that 
she resolved to be " free, sovereign and independent," 
with that intrepidity which confirmed to her enemies 
the practical enforcement of that declaration, and with 
scarcely any advantage but her noble sentiments of 



196 TEXAS IN 1850. 

freedom, she pushed forth her conquest, — conquering 
and conqueror, — until her "one starred banner" waved 
triumphantly at every point of the enemy's encroach- 
ment. Never was an independence more nobly won ! 
A little band of Texans on the plains of San Jacinto 
taught Mexico's proud General — the arrogant Santa 
Anna — that Mexican mercenaries were unequal to 
compete with men whom love of freedom and honor 
inspired to contest. The cause for which the Texans 
were contending, was one which the God of nations 
approved, and the arm of Omnipotence signalized the 
contest with glorious success, which victory laid a broad 
platform for future good to Texas. Let not Texans for- 
get the exalted position they have taken, nor the high 
responsibilities resting upon them of maintaining that 
character which they have so nobly assumed. Let 
them not forget or undervalue their superior advan- 
tages for rendering the future career of their country 
brilHant and consequential. 

Already has sufficient prosperity been awarded to 
inspire the most encouraging hopes for the future. Com- 
paring the present with the past, the most animating 
prospect is presented. Truly " the wilderness has blos- 
somed like the rose : " — emigration, bringing with it 
wealth, intelligence and refinement, has poured into the 
country. Schools and churches have been planted in 
many places, where late the Lidian revelled unmolested, 
and the howl of wild beasts alone broke the stillness of 
nature. 

Steam-boats are now plowing the waters of her noble 



TEXAS IN 1850. 197 

rivers, bringing rich freights of merchandize to the 
wharves, and returning deeply laden with the staple of 
the country, bound to distant markets. The lands have 
increased in value, and the influx of population has 
opened a market for articles of home consumption. 

Great as has been the increase, there are thousands 
of acres of good land, well watered, and well timbered, 
to which we would invite the attention of emisfrants, 
well assured, that in comparing the advantages which 
Texas presents to the planter, the merchant and the 
mechanic, with those of other States, in any point of 
view which she can be taken, she will suffer no dispar- 
agement from the comparison. Is it health which is 
sought for ? The uplands, with their never-failing streams 
of pure water and pleasant groves, enjoy a salubrity of 
climate surpassed by no climate on the face of the 
globe. Is fertility of soil the desideratum ? The allu- 
vial lands of the various river bottoms have no supe- 
rior in the United States. If beauty of scenery is 
required, the high rolling prairies, redolent in verdure, 
now gradually rising into hills, now gently sinking into 
valleys, combining richness of soil with the loveliness of 
nature, present a scenery, at once calculated to rivet 
the attention and call forth the admiration of the be- 
holder. 

An inviting field for interest and usefulness is pre- 
sented, and an elaborate plea may with propriety be 
made in behalf of a country combining such important 
advantages. The prospective importance of Texas 



198 TEXAS IN 1850. 

affords ample security for an enlarged system of en- 
terprise, both in a physical and moral point of view. 

Great as have been the achievements and improve- 
ments of the past, Texas has yet a great work to 
perform. Her love of national liberty inspired to 
deeds of noble valor, and shall she not evince a similar 
patriotism, when interests of immortal value are at issue ? 
Her military power subdued the haughty insolence of 
Mexican invasion, and shall not her spiritual power 
effect another independence, which shall outvie the far- 
famed one of San Jacinto ? A contest is waged — not 
against a worldly foe, but against the power of dark- 
ness, the spiritual enemy. Soldiers are called upon for 
rallying around the standard of freedom, equipped with 
spiritual weapons, drawn from heaven's armory. This 
contest must not be one of doubtful issue ; victory or 
death must bo the motto of every soldier on the field. 
What though he falls — a more glorious cause could 
never be desired, for which to fall a sacrifice ! The love 
of civil liberty embalms the patriot's grave, and shall 
not the love of spiritual liberty wreathe never-fading 
laurels too ? The Christian patriot's name shall live, 
not, perhaps, imprinted on brass or marble, but in the 
records of Eternity he will find deeds inscribed, which 
will survive when earthly monuments and mementos 
shall have passed into oblivion. 

Texas must yet erect her victorious banner at every 
point of the spiritual enemy's dominion, — not stained 
with human carnage, but the blood-stained banner of 
the Prince of peace. 



TEXAS IN 1850. 

Who will come to the aid of Texas in this eventful 
struggle ? When she was contending for civil liberty 
in the trjdng struggle of '36, the request for volunteers 
met with a prompt and liberal response. Shall not the 
present appeal be regarded with still greater interest 
bj Christians whom love to Christ should constrain to 
evince a sacred zeal and enlist in this pre-eminently 
important service ? We wait for a response. 



THE END. 



